The YMCA of METROPOLITAN WASHINGTON encourages adults and organizations in the community to play a vital role in making D.C. region a safer place for children, especially during this ever-changing environment. As our communities continue to press pause and participate in social distancing, we know that protecting kids looks different this year. Protecting children from abuse must be the number one goal of every person who cares about the health and well-being of kids. Together, we can stand up to demand that children are protected and encourage adults to make it happen in our community.
Child Abuse Prevention Month
WHAT PRECAUTIONS ARE IN PLACE TO HELP PREVENT CHILD ABUSE?
These preventive strategies are designed to protect the children in YMCA programs and to protect YMCA staff and volunteers from being wrongly accused of incidences of child abuse.
- The YMCA has in place comprehensive pre-employment screening procedures to screen out staff not suited for working with children.
- The YMCA will take any allegation or suspicion of child abuse seriously.
- Staff are trained and understand their legal obligation to report suspected abuse.
- Policies, procedures, and training are available relating to discipline, supervision, staff/participant interaction, staff and volunteer Code of Conduct, etc.
- Staff understand what practices may be considered abusive, and the difference between what may be considered appropriate and inappropriate touch.
- Staff communicate frequently with parents regarding day-to-day activities and encourage parents to report or question any behavior or event their child may share that appears out of the ordinary.