Family Enrichment Center raises awareness of signs of potential child abuse

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. — Family Enrichment Center is recognizing TEN-4 Awareness Day to raise awareness around the signs of possible child abuse.

According to a release by Family Enrichment Center, TEN-4 stands for Torso, Ears and Neck in children 4 years old and under. Oct. 4 serves as TEN-4 Awareness to Day.

This evidence-based bruising rule is an early warning sign in detecting potential physical abuse. Bruising in these areas, especially in infants and toddlers that are not yet mobile, should be seen as a red flag, the release says, which should lead to further evaluation.

This can be through medical or child protection professionals.

“TEN-4 is a simple, powerful tool that every caregiver, educator, and community member should know. Our youngest children are most vulnerable with 30% of child abuse victims being under the age of 4. Babies under the age of 1 account for the highest rate of victims at 34.6 per 1000 and are the most likely to die from abuse. Understanding the signs of child abuse CAN save lives!” said Nickie Jones, executive director of FEC.

In a recent study, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention learned that home visitation programs like the Parents As Teachers Program can reduce child abuse and neglect by about 40% compared to the control group that did not have home visiting services, according to the release.

FEC says it offers Parents as Teachers to the Barren River Area, where trained family coaches work alongside parents and caregivers to strengthen protective factors, identify concerns early and connect them with community resources.

“Prevention starts with early education and support,” said director of programs, Samantha Berry. “Our home visiting staff build trusting relationships with families, providing the tools and knowledge they need to raise healthy, thriving children during one of the most crucial developmental periods of their child’s life.”

On TEN-4 Awareness Day, Family Enrichment Center encourages all community members to:

• Learn the signs: Understand what bruising in the TEN-4 areas may indicate.
• Speak up: If you suspect abuse, report it. One call can make a difference.
• Support families: Prevention is most effective when families have access toearly support and resources.

Together, we can protect children, empower families and strengthen our community.

For more information about TEN-4, or the Parents As Teachers Program, or to schedule a training please contact Family Enrichment Center at 270-781-6714 or visit www.fecbg.com.