Child abuse affects everyone. It crosses all socioeconomic, ethnic, cultural, occupational, and religious groups, affecting children of all ages. Any child can be victimized, and child abuse can take many different forms, some quite obvious to us and others more subtle but equally devastating.

California law defines child abuse as any of the following:
• Physical abuse—a child is physically injured by other than accidental means. This ranges from minor bruises to major fractures.
• Sexual abuse—sexual exploitation can take many forms, from verbal harassment to pornography to physical assault.
• Emotional abuse—this pattern of behavior includes constant criticism, threats, rejection or withholding of love, support or guidance. This type of abuse impairs a child’s emotional development and sense of self-worth.
• Neglect—this is a failure to provide for a child’s basic needs, such as food, clothing, shelter, medical, educational, and emotional needs or supervision.

If you or someone you know is struggling with abusive behavior, get help! Call one of the resources below, or call a counselor or your church minister. Call someone who can ensure that your children are safe and that adult behavior begins to change. Ignoring child abuse does not make it go away. As a community we have a role in its prevention, in educating each other and in keeping our children safe.

Resources:
California Office of Child Abuse Prevention: (916) 651-6960
Sacramento County--24 Hour Child Abuse Hotline: (916) 875-5437 (875-KIDS)
Placer County Children's Protective Services: (530) 886-5401
Nevada County Child Protective Services: (530) 265-9380, or Toll-Free: (888) 456-9380
El Dorado County Child Abuse & Child Protective Services: (530) 642-7100, (530) 573-3201

In an emergency always call 911 for law enforcement and immediate medical attention.