Every April, Lutheran Family and Children’s Services (LFCS) observes Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention Month to encourage every Missourian to help keep children safe. Prevention isn’t just about spotting the bad. It’s about strengthening families and providing the support they need so the “bad” never happens in the first place. Most people believe they would recognize abusive behavior if it were happening, but what if you were put on the spot? Would you feel comfortable observing a situation and knowing when to call and what to report?

In Missouri, the Children’s Division receives more than 154,000 hotline reports each year, according to the latest data from the Missouri Department of Social Services. Advocates say many cases of abuse or neglect may go unreported because people are unsure what qualifies as abuse or how to report concerns.

While many people have the best of intentions, it can be difficult to recognize the signs of abuse or neglect or to know when to report concerns. In response, LFCS developed a child abuse and neglect prevention checklist to help individuals better understand when and how concerning behavior should be reported.

Child Abuse Prevention and Reporting Checklist

√ Know the warning signs. Unexplained injuries, sudden changes in behavior, fear of certain adults, or signs of neglect such as poor hygiene or hunger can indicate a child may need help.

√ Trust your instincts. You do not need proof to make a report, only a reasonable suspicion that a child may be experiencing abuse or neglect.

√ Save the hotline number. Keep the Missouri Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline (1-800-392-3738) saved in your phone so you can act quickly if concerns arise.

√ If a child tells you something, listen calmly. Thank them for telling you, avoid asking leading questions, and report the concern so trained professionals can follow up.

√ Write down what you noticed. Record observations such as injuries, statements, or concerning behaviors to help provide clear information when making a report.

√ Remember that reporting starts the process. Hotline staff will ask basic questions about the child, the parents, and the situation to determine whether further investigation is needed.

How to Report Child Abuse in Missouri

If you suspect child abuse or neglect, contact the Missouri Child Abuse & Neglect Hotline at 1-800-392-3738. The toll-free number is answered 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and reports may be made anonymously.

Are you a mandated reporter? Ensure your certification is up to date by visiting the Missouri DSS training page.

For more information about recognizing the signs of abuse, what happens during a hotline call, and how to report concerns, visit the Lutheran Family and Children’s Services resource page: https://lfcsmo.org/who-we-are/reporting-child-abuse-and-neglect/.

For more information about prevention and family support services, contact the LFCS toll-free at 1-866-326-5327 or email help@lfcs.org.

Help Us Raise Awareness

Child abuse prevention is a community-wide effort. You can help by sharing this checklist with your neighbors, coworkers, and friends to ensure every child has a safe place to grow.

Each year, thousands of children in Missouri experience abuse and neglect, facing challenges that can have lifelong consequences. At Lutheran Family and Children’s Services of Missouri, we recognize Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention Month in April as an opportunity to raise awareness and advocate for the safety, healing, and well-being of children and families in our communities.

Prevention Through Education, Therapy, and Support
Rather than solely focusing on intervention after abuse has occurred, LFCS prioritizes prevention by equipping parents with the tools they need to build safe and nurturing homes. Our Parenting Program helps families develop healthy parenting strategies, strengthen family bonds, and access valuable community resources.

Research highlights the effectiveness of parenting education in preventing abuse. A systematic review of intervention programs found a significant reduction in physical punishment and harsh discipline, as well as improvements in children’s social interactions, anxiety levels, and behavior. By investing in education and prevention, we can reduce child maltreatment and create a more supportive environment for families.

Mental health counseling is another essential part of breaking the cycle of trauma. Parents who can address underlying issues through therapy can create a more stable, loving home environment for their children. LFCS provides professional counseling services that help parents navigate challenges, heal from past experiences, and develop stronger emotional resilience, ultimately benefiting the entire family.

How You Can Help
Throughout April, LFCS encourages the community to join us in raising awareness and advocating for child abuse prevention. Here’s how you can get involved:

• Educate Yourself: Learn more about LFCS’s services and resources at lfcsmo.org.
• Know the Signs: Familiarize yourself with what to do if you suspect child abuse or neglect.
• Spread Awareness: Share information about Child Abuse Prevention Month on social media using #ChildAbusePreventionMonth and #LFCS.
• Show Your Support: Participate in Wear Blue Day on April 4 to raise awareness. Use #WearBlueDay to show solidarity.
• Volunteer Your Time: Support children and families in need through volunteering.
• Donate: Help us continue our mission of protecting children and strengthening families by making a contribution.

“Child Abuse Prevention Month is an opportunity to raise awareness about the prevalence of child maltreatment in Missouri and the importance of prevention,” said Heather Wall, Director of Parenting Services at LFCS. “Our team works to provide safety, healing, and resources to those navigating the devastating effects of abuse and neglect. By working together, we can build a community where every child is safe, supported, and loved.”

For more information about Lutheran Family and Children’s Services, visit lfcsmo.org, call 866-326-LFCS, or email help@lfcs.org.

Please check out the resources listed below to support Child Abuse & Neglect Prevention and learn more about reporting an incident:

• Community Support Resources:
  • Stewards of Children
  • MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers)
  • State of Missouri Office of Child Advocate
  • National Child Traumatic Stress Network
  • Missouri Children’s Trauma Network
  • Kids Win Missouri
  • Monique Burr Foundation For Children