- Home
- About Us
- ChildServ Mission, Vision and Values
- Child Abuse Prevention
- Child Family Services
- Child Welfare Family Advocacy
- Programs & Services
- Donate
- Volunteer
- Foster Parent Info
- Events
- Careers
- Advocacy
- Faith Communities
- News
- Media
- Contacts
- Management & Trustees
- Links
Child Abuse Prevention
Each year, ChildServ and other child abuse agencies throughout Illinois intervene on behalf of thousands of children in threatening situations. Our staff and volunteers are dedicated to providing children in the Chicago-area counties of Lake, DuPage and Cook with safe, loving homes and stimulating learning environments, either through family support programs, through adoption and foster home placement, or enriching group home settings.
Ideally, we’d like to keep children in their homes or with their extended families, where they can be nurtured by the people who are closest to them before the services of child abuse agencies are needed. Sometimes this can be accomplished by teaching families coping skills, and equipping parents with the tools they need to build stronger, closer relationships with their children. Below are some of the techniques parents and children can employ to enjoy a happier life together:
- Set aside a family day once a week to connect and talk about your day.
- Enjoy a movie together, complete with popcorn and soft drinks.
- Throw Friday night family theme nights. Let children pick a theme and plan how to carry it out.
- Entertain the kids with a rousing story before bed. They’ll look forward to the togetherness.
- Help your children with their homework. Resources are available for tutoring kids at home.
- Get outside. Organize a family snowball fight or build a snowman together.
- Pray together. Talk about what you’re all thankful for, and pray together on the important issues.
- Take family trips. Day trips to a local museum or landmark are educational and encourage bonding.
- Play the children’s games. Let them choose their favorite, and then really get into it.
- Spend the evening together. Bake a batch of cookies, giving each family member a special job to do.
If you are a parent in need of additional help or support, or know a child who may be at risk, please contact ChildServ for information on getting assistance.