Yingling Raises Awareness for Child Abuse Prevention Month

ROUND LAKE BEACH, Ill. – The month of April is Child Abuse Prevention Month, and state Rep. Sam Yingling, D–Grayslake, is urging his constituents to learn how they can help prevent child abuse.

“We must all be a part of the solution to prevent child abuse,” said Yingling. “Child abuse harms some of the most vulnerable members of our community, many of whom are unable to speak for themselves, and we all need to do our part to prevent it.”

The Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) defines child abuse as mistreatment of children under the age of eighteen by a parent, relative, babysitter or anyone else who is responsible for the child’s welfare, like a teacher. According to DCFS, up to seventy percent of childhood abuse goes unreported, and a child tells an average of seven adults about the abuse before it is reported.

There are many signs and symptoms that children may exhibit if they are victims of abuse, including having unexplained injuries, wearing long clothing even during warm weather, or being overly watchful and alert. If anyone suspects that a child is being abused or neglected, Yingling encourages residents to call DCFS’s 24-hour child abuse hotline at 1-800-25-ABUSE (800-252-2873).

“As a community, we all must work to prevent child abuse,” said Yingling. “I urge everyone to take some time this month to learn more about the signs and symptoms and report any indications of abuse to the proper authorities.”