Tips for preventing child abuse, neglect Published April 5, 2013 By Chrisan Smith Family Advocacy Outreach Program Manager KIRTLAND AIR FORCE BASE, N.M -- More than 1.5 million children are abused or neglected in the United States each year. Each abused or neglected child costs the taxpayers more than $67,000 per year. Americans spend more than $80 billion annually on the direct and indirect costs of child abuse and neglect. Child abuse and neglect are preventable. Parental stress is a big contributing factor to child abuse and neglect, and these are certainly stressful times we live in. Prevent Child Abuse America recommends reaching out to other parents in your community and offer kind words to those who are struggling. Perhaps offer to baby-sit or run errands. April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month and Prevent Child Abuse America offers the following tips for helping to prevent child abuse: Be a nurturing parent Children need to know that they are special, loved and capable of following their dreams. Help yourself When the big and little problems of your everyday life pile up to the point you feel overwhelmed and out of control - take time out. Don't take it out on your kid Get involved Ask your community leaders, clergy, library and schools to develop services to meet the needs of healthy children and families. Help a friend, neighbor or relative Being a parent isn't easy. Offer a helping hand take care of the children, so the parent(s) can rest or spend time together. Promote programs in school Teaching children, parents and teachers prevention strategies can help to keep children safe. Monitor your child's television and video viewing Watching violent films and TV programs can harm young children. If your baby cries... It can be frustrating to hear your baby cry. Learn what to do if your baby won't stop crying. Never shake a baby -- shaking a child may result in severe injury or death. Volunteer at a local child abuse prevention program For information about volunteer opportunities, call 1-800-CHILDREN. Report suspected abuse or neglect If you have reason to believe a child has been or may be harmed, call your local department of children and family services or your local police department. Additional information For more prevention ideas, visit www.preventchildabuse.org.