Watch Laurieann Thorpe from Prevent Child Abuse Utah appear on Good Things Utah.
Child Neglect is when a parent or guardian fails to provide basic needs for their child.
The seven basic needs all children need for a healthy and happy childhood are:
- Food & water
- Shelter
- Hygiene
- Medical care
- Education
- Love and attention
- Appropriate clothing
Research indicates that neglect in the most commonly reported type of child abuse across both Utah and the United States. Parents or caregivers with a poor support system, limited access to community resources, or mental health & substance abuse disorders are at a greater risk of neglecting children. DCFS and the State of Utah have a number of resources at their disposal that can help families address the underlying cause of neglect and help families to become stronger and more resilient in the face of life’s challenges.
For decades, Prevent Child Abuse Utah’s Parents as Teachers program has been working directly with families in their homes, linking parents to community resources, providing knowledge of child development, and supporting parents as they practice new skills. Our Education Team teaches students how to recognize the signs of neglect, and seek help from trusted adults such as teachers or school counselors.
For more information on Prevent Child Abuse Utah’s Home Visiting and Education programs, please visit our website at pcautah.org.