With schools and other youth-serving organizations closed to limit the spread of COVID-19, many Oregon children no longer have the safety net of teachers, counselors and other safe adults around them. With fewer eyes on children, there is less opportunity to recognize abuse when it’s happening and get kids the help they need. Already, the Oregon Child Abuse Hotline is seeing a significant decrease in child abuse reporting.
As responsible adults, it is up to us to help protect and support the children around us. We can be the safety net.
Everyone can play a role in keeping kids safer during these uncertain times. Here are some resources:
Recommendations for being homebound from ABC House’s Trauma Counseling Specialists:
The reality is that we are all experiencing a worldwide traumatic event and just as trauma affects us all differently so too will this event. Our children are experiencing this event as well and hear reports on the news or overhear adults talking about their concerns or worries. Children will ultimately worry as well. We strongly suggest that you give your children more support than you might usually. Click here to read more about the supportive measures you can take for the wellbeing of your children.
Child & Family Wellbeing:
Preventing Abuse During the COVID-19 Outbreak
Coping in Hard Times: Fact Sheet for Parents
The Impact of COVID-19 on Child Sex and Labor Trafficking and What you Can Do
Fighting the Big Virus: Trinka and Sam’s Questions Children’s Book (in English and Español)
Spring Break Amid COVID: Celebrating Safely
Tip Sheet: Helping Children with Traumatic Separation or Traumatic Grief
Health Care Toolbox: Helping My Child Cope with Coronavirus (COVID-19) (in English and Español)
Tips for Families with young children during the Coronavirus
Darkness to Light: Taking protective steps during the coronavirus pandemic
Monique Burr Foundation for Children: Preventing child abuse during school breaks
Generations United: Fact sheet for grandfamilies and multigenerational families
Digital Safety Resources:
Tips to Help Stop Cyberbullying
Parent Tech Talks: Age-appropriate conversations for kids and youth about online safety
Protect Young Eyes: 5 reminders while your kids are stuck at home
NetSmartz: National Center for Missing & Exploited Children’s online safety education program
Beau Biden Foundation: Internet safety and cyberbullying prevention
National Cyber Security Alliance: COVID-19 Resource Library
Resources for School & Remote Learning:
Tips for Keeping Remote Students Safe
Trauma-Informed School Strategies
Guidance for Helpers in a Virtual Environment
120 Digital Resources for Home-Schooling
If there is a child in your life that you’re worried is being harmed, please call the child abuse hotline (855-503-7233) or local law enforcement.