• Develop friendly relationships with your neighbors and their children. Problems often seem less overwhelming when you have support nearby.
• Get involved in your child's school. Join the parent-teacher organization and attend school events.
• Talk to your friends and neighbors about child abuse and how to prevent it.

The following programs may be offered through schools, healthcare clinics, social service agencies, or community- or faith-based organizations:

• Parent education programs teach parents about child development and parenting skills.
• Home-visiting programs provide social support, education, and crisis intervention to families at risk for abuse.
• Substance abuse treatment programs can help parents overcome problems with alcohol or other drugs.
• Well-baby programs provide health and education services to new parents.
• Childcare programs offer affordable childcare services. This may allow parents to maintain full-time jobs or stay in school while keeping their children safe.
• Respite care provides relief to families with a child or other family member who is ill or has a disability.
• Parent mentor programs match experienced, stable parents with parents at risk for abuse. Mentors provide support and model positive parenting skills.
• Family support centers offer an array of preventive support services, including many of those listed above, as well as referral to other community services.
• Parent support groups offer a place for parents to meet and discuss parenting issues, exchange ideas, and offer support.

• Help local organizations distribute educational materials on parenting and child abuse prevention.
• Encourage local schools or other community organizations to provide parenting education.
• Request a speaker or in-service training through the child protective services hotline.
• Offer to speak to the media and other groups about your own experiences as a parent. Parents Anonymous ® Inc. has a resource guide, Media Guide for Parent Leaders, that may be helpful.
• Organize a fundraiser or a food drive to support an organization that helps families in your community.
• Help the public library develop resources for parents. Work with the librarian to develop a collection of resources on child development and parenting skills.
• Provide friendship an guidance to parents and children who need your help by volunteering for programs such as Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA).
• Contact your elected officials and ask them to support funding for prevention efforts and policies that support children and families.
• Make a donation to an organization that works to prevent child abuse. You can donate money, or give clothing, food, or toys to a social service agency that helps families in your community.
• Start or join a community coalition to prevent child abuse and neglect.