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Abuse in a Public Place

Watching children be mistreated can be very uncomfortable. Some things you can do to help if you see abuse in a public place include:
  1. Start a conversation with the adult to direct attention away from the child
    • ''She seems to be trying your patience''
    • ''My child has gotten upset like that, too''
    • ''He has beautiful eyes'
    • ''Children can wear you out, can't they? Is there anything I can do to help?''
  2. Divert the child's attention (if they are misbehaving) by talking to the child.
  3. Look for an opportunity to praise the parent or child.
  4. If the child is in danger, offer assistance. For example, if the child is left unattended in a grocery cart, stand by the child until the parent returns.
  5. Avoid negative remarks or looks. That may increase the parent's anger and make the situation worse.

(Information from Prevent Child Abuse America)








PREVENT CHILD ABUSE WISCONSINn | 1820 Appleton Road | Menasha, WI 54952
phone 920-996-2210 | fax 920-996-2214 | 1-800-CHILDREN
pcaw@cssw.org