HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County District Attorney Keith Schroeder said Thursday that, with schools closed, children have more time to spend on the computer. He says that opens up more opportunities for cyber predators. It’s also opening children up to more chances of child abuse. The Horizons Children’s Advocacy Center released some information on these two dangers facing children.
During this time of social distancing, children are at more risk of child abuse and neglect now more than ever. Isolation and increased stressors in the home can increase the likelihood abuse will occur. Children in isolation also have less contact with others who might spot the abuse and report. They need your help. The center asks that if you suspect abuse may be happening to a child you know, please contact the Kansas Protection Report Center at 1-800-922-5330 or contact your local law enforcement agency.
It is critical to know that Child Advocacy Centers (CAC) across Kansas and their multidisciplinary team partners remain committed to investigating child abuse and neglect, providing forensic interviews, offering connection to medical and mental health services, and providing child and family advocacy. Each CAC and their teams may currently have different guidelines in place on how to access services, so please reach out to your local agency for assistance. Visit www.kscac.org to locate a CAC near you.
Here are additional resources that may be helpful during this time:
Kansas Department for Health & Environment (KDHE): www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov.
National Child Traumatic Stress Network—Parent/Caregiver Guide to Helping Families Cope with Coronavirus 2019 at www.nctsn.org.
Kansas Children’s Service League (KCSL): Parent Help Line 1-800-CHILDREN.