What You Can Do When Children Are Mistreated In Public

Have you ever felt helpless when you’ve witnessed a child being physically or emotionally mistreated? Have you ever wondered what you could have done to interview? You are not alone.

In a survey by Prevent Child Abuse America, nearly half of those witnessing abuse did nothing because they did not know what to do. The Family Source of Florida encourages you to prepare for a situation where a child may need your help or a parent may need your caring words of support.

FIRST …Assess the situation for the child’s immediate safety, as well as your personal safety.

If you feel a situation is too volatile for you to approach the parent, notify the store manager and/or police and ask them to intervene.

If you feel it is safe to personally intervene on behalf of the child try one of the following:

SYMPATHIZE WITH THE PARENT . Say something like, “ She seems to be trying your patience,” or “My child used to get upset like that, too.”

DIVERT ANGRY ATTENTION AWAY FROM THE CHILD . Strike up a conversation with the adult. Ask a question or directions, anything to provide a distraction and allow time for the parent’s anger to subside.

COMPLIMENT OR ENCOURAGE THE CHILD OR PARENT. Say something positive such as, “What a big, strong boy you have. How old is he?” “It’s a lot of work keeping up with a toddler. You have my admiration for managing it!”

OFFER SYMPATHY AND HELP. When a parent’s anger is apparently fueled by embarrassment at the fuss the child is making, say something like “Children sure can wear you out! Is there anything I can do to help?” or “Taking kids out to eat is hard. I’m sure everyone here is remembering that and giving you credit for your patience.”

ALERT THE STORE MANAGER if you are concerned about the child’s physical safety. Call the police or 1-800-96-ABUSE if the child is being abused.

QUIETLY STAND BY if the child is being left alone or neglected. BE PREPARED TO ACT if the child’s safety is in jeopardy. For example, a child left unattended in a grocery cart or a toddler at a street or parking lot curbside.

DO NOT give dirty looks or make snide remarks. Disapproval or anger may only increase the parent’s anger and make matters worse. If someone else in a store or restaurant is clearly disapproving, step in and be an obvious ally to the parent by offering a kind remark or some help.

The Family Source of Florida, Inc. FS5