Page 59 - May-June-July Life In Naples Magazine
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constantly to say “no” to keep them safe. Reduce your own stress a towel and have her help mop up. Did he have a tantrum in the
and your child’s by baby-proofing your home. Put irreplaceable theater? Take away his next movie privilege.
objects, medicines, knives, scissors and cleaning chemicals out
of reach. Use outlet covers, magnetic cabinet locks and other The takeaway: Every action, positive and negative, has
inexpensive protections. consequences. That consequence should never, ever, be physical
abuse.
The takeaway: Hoard that important word, “No!” for
imminent danger and social/ behavioral learning.Used sparingly, 7. LISTEN, LISTEN, LISTEN
each No! will have far more impact.
In a healthy, loving home, the most important gift you can
4. SAY IT! “I’M PROUD OF YOU!” give your child is safety. Abused children are often too young,
too confused or too frightened to tell you something’s wrong.
Many abused children come to us haunted and damaged Please pay attention when a child lets you know, verbally or
by public humiliation. Most of these kids have never heard non-verbally, that someone or something is making them afraid
their parents say the four exhilaration-producing words, “We’re or uncomfortable. Then find out exactly why.
proud of you.”
The takeaway: If you know of or suspect child abuse, please
Never hearing praise or acknowledgment is a form of neglect, call the Florida Abuse Hotline, 800.962.2872 or call the CAC
and neglect is a form of child abuse. Sincere praise for a child’s 239.263.8383.
act of kindness or accomplishment creates a more powerful
high than a bucket of candy, and the occasional well-earned AND NOW FOR THE SHOCKER!
compliment overheard by peers skyrockets the effect totally
off the charts. This phenomenon is reflected in the adult world. People are invariably horrified to learn that more than
Look at all the awards ceremonies and other public honors we 4,000 cases of physical and sexual abuse are reported in Collier
bestow and receive in our business and social lives! County every year. Since 1986, The Children’s Advocacy
Center of Collier County has been the only first-response
The takeaway: Use the four magic words generously, and facility to receive and assist children in crisis situations. With
watch your child thrive! its professional team of physicians, counselors and advocates,
and in concert with leading state and local agencies, hospitals
5. REVISE YOUR PROJECTIONS and shelters, its Child Protection Team serves more than 2,200
children each year.
As any sharp entrepreneur, fundraiser, or business manager
knows,one has to keep fine-tuning the plan and revise projections The mission of the non-profit agency is to improve the
accordingly. Surprise! That works in parenting, too. One toddler lives of these children and enhance their families’ capabilities
can’t wait to try out the potty, but will reject your attempts to to provide safe environments. Its coordinated, multi-agency
help them form words. Another toddler will have no part of approach to the identification, investigation, intervention,
that potty deal, because he’s too busy picking out melodies on and treatment of child sexual and physical abuse includes a
the keyboard. Extremely late progress could indicate a physical friendly, compassionate atmosphere designed to minimize a
or neurological problem, but in most cases, each child progresses child’s trauma, support the healing process, and give her the
in different areas at her own speed. best possible chance at a safe and happy future. The CAC also
offers prevention, child safety and supervision programs to the
The takeaway: Rule out any medical concerns with the community.
doctor. Encourage without shaming. And most importantly,
revise your projections! BECOME INVOLVED - MAKE A
DIFFERENCE!
6. RETHINK THE PUNISHMENT
The CAC needs and welcomes volunteers, gifts of stuffed
Did your teenager break the rules (again)? Here’s a no-brainer: animals, new clothing and other items for its young clients, and
Take away the treasured iPad or iPhone. It’s more effective than especially appreciates financial support to continue its programs.
hitting or yelling, guaranteed! “Make the punishment fit the To learn more, visit caccollier.org. To become involved on a
crime”isn’t new in legal circles, and it’s great advice for parenting
all ages (although we prefer the word “consequences.”) Did the major level, call CEO Jackie Stephens at 239.263.8383.
four year-old clumsily knock over a glass at the table? Give her
Life in Naples | May • June • July 2015 59
