A grim reality in Pennsylvania, according to the latest state numbers, is that nine out of every 1,000 children are suspected victims of child abuse or neglect. However, experts now say more can be done to keep those kids safe.

Nationwide campaigns about child abuse prevention have long focused on images of children in peril, but Prevent Child Abuse America president/CEO Jim Hmurovich says it turns out that was the wrong approach to successfully protect children.

"The public just literally became overwhelmed with the idea: 'I don't know what to do - I can't deal with this.' And that's not what we were looking for."

Hmurovich says healthy neighborhoods and communities where parents can network and have social support are examples of the new prevention campaign.

"Child abuse and neglect is, in fact, preventable. And we also know that it takes everyone in the United States to make sure that children are safe in their homes, in their communities, in their state and in our nation."

Campaigns to protect children now focus on the issue as a public health topic, one backed by research and programs proven to keep children safe, Hmurovich says. A University of Pennsylvania study released last month indicates that child abuse and neglect dropped nationwide between 1996 and 2006. The study warns the decrease is not a reason to reduce funding for programs aimed at child abuse prevention and intervention, however.

Tom Joseph, Public News Service - PA