Charlotte Lankard: Speaking out against child abuse

“Mommy's Black Eye,” by William Bentrim, provides a simple but candid framework for children to understand domestic violence as well as ways they can get help to cope with it.

“Kids Going to Court” is an illustrated storybook that helps prepare a child for going to court. It teaches kids what to expect before, during and after a trial. There are puzzles and maze activities.

Combating child abuse is not just the task of the Department of Human Services. Too often we look the other way when we sense threatening situations because we don't want to believe people are capable of such evil. It is immoral for us to do so. To report a concern, call DHS at (800) 522-3511.

Charlotte Lankard is a licensed marriage and family therapist in private practice. Contact her at clankard@opubco.com.