Every child deserves to grow up in a safe, nurturing environment.  Licking Memorial Health Systems (LMHS) encourages all individuals and organizations to support prevention efforts of child abuse and neglect in Licking County throughout the year and especially during April, which is National Child Abuse Prevention Month.  
 
Protective factors are the strengths and resources on which families rely as a shield from life’s stresses during difficult times.  Research shows that when parents possess protective factors, the risk for neglect and abuse decrease and optimal outcomes for children, youth, and families are promoted.  Major protective factors include knowledge of parenting, knowledge of child development, parental resilience, social connections, and concrete supports.
 
“Child abuse prevention is a community responsibility,” said LMHS President & CEO Rob Montagnese.  “We can help prevent child abuse and neglect by ensuring that parents have the knowledge, skills, and resources they need to care for their children, and by establishing meaningful connections with the families in our community.”
 
For more information about child abuse prevention programs and other resources, please visit cacoflc.org.