FAP battles child abuse

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Armando A. Schwier-Morales
  • 22nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. --  The abuse or neglect of the Department of Defense's littlest war fighters is a serious issue that McConnell's Family Advocacy Program fights every day.

April is national Child Abuse Prevention Month. The Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act was the earliest initiative taken in 1974 to prevent and combat child abuse.

"It's important to recognize this because statistics show that one out of three children experience some type of abuse in their life time, numbers that are pretty staggering," said  Alisa Norlin, 22nd Medical Operations Squadron FAP outreach manager.

According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, CAPTA has been amended several times to provide programs, strengthen families and protect children. The DOD also recognizes Child Abuse Prevention Month with a recent focus on shaken baby syndrome.

"A reason that shaken baby is such a priority is because injuries, are so profound and often times have residual damage," said Ms. Norlin.

Approximately 25 percent of victims die from injuries with 80 percent suffering lifetime disabilities averaging a cost of care exceeding one million dollars per child. Many of the incidents are from parent's or care giver's inability to sooth a crying baby.

"Statistically 70 percent of perpetrators are men," said Ms. Norlin. "The Air Force has done a great job with education and awareness leading to lower incident numbers than the national average."

McConnell FAP has taken the lead to help prevent shaken baby syndrome by providing as much education as possible. They have hosted child provider classes, educational booths, parent enrichment classes, new parent support programs, child seat checks and much more.

"It always makes me feel good to be able to help someone and walk away knowing that their child is safe," said Tonya Cordt, Child Development Center child development technician. "It feels good to know that parents have the education and knowledge to put the car seats in themselves, correctly every time."
Along with providing Team McConnell with education, the FAP cooperates with local Kansas and base agencies like the youth center, CDC and many more to support the base.

"We try to help families learn how to be together, have a good time and learn real positive social skills," said Ms. Norlin.

While April may be recognized as Child Abuse Prevention Month, the FAP has classes year round to provide caregivers and parents with education and better parenting skills. For more information, call the FAP at (316) 759-5768 or the CDC at (316) 759-4223.

"Child abuse is a serious thing with devastating financial cost, but the emotional cost is beyond comprehension," said Ms. Norlin.