Resources on Child Abuse

Sadly, when it comes to talking about safety in our children's ministry, we have to also talk about child abuse. It is one of the things which most clearly shows our world is "broken" and is something which I'm absolutely sure breaks the heart of Jesus. Sadly, it is something we see all too often in children's ministry. Wayne Stocks, the guy who brought us Kidmin1124 and writes Divorce Ministry 4 Kids, has posted some excellent resources on child abuse . . . take some time to read and put them to use in your ministry . . . 

• Divorce, Cohabitation, Single Parenting and the Increased Risk of Child Abuse and Neglect
• What is Child Abuse and Neglect
• Introduction to the National Incidence Study of Child Abuse and Neglect
• Risks of Child Abuse and Neglect Based on Family Structure
• Recognizing Signs of Potential Child Abuse and Neglect
• What to Do if You Suspect Child Abuse or Neglect
• How to Talk to an Abused or Neglected Child
• Reporting Suspected Child Abuse or Neglect
• Sources of Additional Information on Child Abuse and Neglect

We need to know what to watch for and what to do when we suspect a child is being harmed. These resources will help us do exactly this. Thank you Wayne for providing these much needed tools.

We need to be absolutely committed to being certain our children's ministries are safe places for children. If you do not have a child safety policy . . . GET ONE. Do it NOW. Check my post on how to determine a child safety policy, talk with churches near you and ask if you could see their child safety policy then sit down with people from your church and get a policy in writing. Once you have your policy, give it to all volunteers, all parents and all leaders in your church. Include it in every training you have and follow it to the letter. We MUST do everything we can to be sure our ministries are safe places for children.

Watch. Be alert. Pay attention. And if you see a child who is being harmed or are concerned about an adult - ACT!