greenville first steps - spring 2016

G R E E N V I L L E C O U N T Y

April is Child Abuse Prevention Month

scChildren.org/CAPmonthGreenville

TURNING TOWARD A SAFER WORLD FOR CHILDREN


April is Child Abuse Prevention Month

scChildren.org/CAPmonthGreenville

TURNING TOWARD A SAFER WORLD FOR CHILDREN

2 April is Child Abuse Prevention Month – scChildren.org/CAPmonthGreenville

April is Child Abuse Prevention Month, the

nationally designated month to recognize

the importance of communities working

together to prevent child abuse and neglect,

and Greenville County First Steps and

Children’s Trust of South Carolina are joining

forces to promote Greenville’s Child Abuse

Prevention Month.

Greenville County First Steps has served as

the leader behind Project Pinwheel in the

Upstate area by planting pinwheel gardens

with more than 300 community partners

over the past four years. The pinwheel,

which serves as the national symbol of child

abuse prevention, represents the happy,

healthy childhood every child deserves.

While this is a year-round effort, April’s the

time that we shine a spotlight on all the

prevention strategies that individuals and

communities can use to protect children,

strengthen families, and raise awareness

about the need to stop child abuse and

neglect from occurring.

Children’s Trust is home to Prevent Child

Abuse South Carolina, the state chapter of

Prevent Child Abuse America, and leads the

Pinwheels for Prevention campaign across

the state. This endeavor connects Project

Pinwheel to the Pinwheels for Prevention

campaign.

Greenville County First Steps recently

became a charter Prevention Partner of

Prevent Child Abuse South Carolina. This

newly-formed network of organizations

throughout the state will lead the way in

raising awareness.

Both Children’s Trust and Greenville County

First Steps are excited about the new

alliance, which links local organizations

to a national message. Our long-standing

productive relationship will only be

enhanced by this initiative.

We are committed to giving every child the

opportunity to grow up healthy and happy,

but we can’t accomplish that unless all of

us work together. That’s what makes our

partnership so important.

Please join us in our mission to prevent child

abuse and neglect.

Sue WilliamsCHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

CHILDREN’S TRUST OF SOUTH CAROLINA

Derek LewisEXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

GREENVILLE COUNTY FIRST STEPS

April is Child Abuse Prevention MonthRECOGNIZE | SUPPORT | ADVOCATE | PROTECT

Learn more about Child Abuse Prevention Month and how to keep South Carolina’s children safe.

#GreatChildhoodsscChildren.org/CAPmonth

BUILDING GREAT CHILDHOODSWe know if families are strong and communities have resources, then children are more likely to grow up free from child abuse and neglect.

Join us to celebrate the proven protections that keep all children ready to enjoy a great childhood.

Strength and resilience builds great childhoods

Families who are strong, able to manage challenges, and cope with the stresses of life are resilient. Resilience is what allows parents to continue nurturing their children even when times are tough.

Playing with your kid builds great childhoods

When families spend quality time together, parents can help their children learn how to be good winners and losers. Children who understand their feelings and can better relate to others cause less stress on the family and grow into well-adjusted adults with the ability to handle life’s curveballs.

Good neighbors build great childhoods

Families need friends. They need people who can lend a sympathetic ear and offer advice or support. Get involved in your school and community, make friends, and help your neighbors. A little bit of support can be a great relief for families who may feel stressed or isolated.

Support in tough times builds great childhoods

When parents are not able to provide food, shelter, clothing and other basic needs, their children may be at risk. Strong communities lend a helping hand to families who have lost a job, lack health insurance, are battling an addiction or suffer a crisis such as a natural disaster.

Setting rules and boundaries build great childhoods

Every parent knows the stress of a crying baby, misbehaving toddler or limit-pushing school-age child. When parents set and enforce family rules, appropriately manage expectations, and better understand their children’s capabilities at their ages and stages of life, misbehavior decreases and family stress goes down.


This summer, imaginations take ffl light.

Experience the excitement of our Summer Adventure Club where imaginations are free to run wild. Get ready for engineering design

challenges, discoveries, outdoor exploration and more. It’s going to be one epic summer. Fun for ages 5 – 10.*

Learn more at PrimroseSummer.com.Register today! Space is limited.

Each Primrose School is a privately owned and operated franchise. Primrose Schools is a trademark of Primrose School Franchising Company. ©2016 Primrose School Franchising Company. All rights reserved. *Ages for

Summer Adventure Club programs vary by location.

Primrose School of Greenville404 Houston St | Greenville, SC 29601

864.370.8118 | PrimroseGreenville.com

Now Enrolling!

A Childs Haven, Inc.20 Martin Drive, Greenville, SC 29617 | 864-298-0025 | www.achildshaven.org

ORGANIZATION INFORMATION:A Child's Haven serves preschool aged children who are developmentally delayed because of limited resources, abuse, or neglect, and provides support and education for their families and/or custodial caregivers. We prepare the child for successful integration into Kindergarten, and work with their families to become involved and effective parents.

HOW A CHILD’S HAVEN PREVENTS CHILD ABUSE:In addition to providing daily therapeutic and clinical services to preschool aged children who are developmentally delayed and from low income families, our staff is trained to identify early signs of abuse, or impending abuse. The parents of our children participate in weekly parenting classes at our facility that teach positive parenting skills. Our Family Support Counselors also conduct weekly in-home visits to support our therapeutic services for the children, and reinforce the techniques taught in parenting classes.

EVENT SPOTLIGHT:Be a Part of the Movement-Grow Healthy TogetherApril 15, 2016 | 3:00-5:00PM | Open to the public

Families will transplant vegetable plants in pots to take home. Healthy eating tips and simple recipes that children can help make at home will be available. Volunteers working this event will discuss how fun parent-child activities help with building protective factors within the family and support healthy relationships.

Special section provided by Greenville First Steps – www.greenvillefirststeps.org 5

Bob Jones University Teacher Education Division1700 Wade Hampton Blvd., Greenville, SC 29614 | 864-370-1800 | www.bju.edu

SCAEYC Celebrates our Youngest Learners during

Week of the Young Child and all year!

ORGANIZATION INFORMATION:E. North Street Mathematics and Science and Hollis Academies are Greenville County Title 1 schools each serving about 600 4k-5th graders in the downtown area. These schools also serve as clinical sites for Bob Jones University's Teacher Education Division. BJU is a private, non-denominational Christian University, serving almost 3,000 students from all over the world. In particular, BJU’s Early Childhood Education Department prepares childcare professionals and licensed early childhood educators to work with young children and families in a variety of educational and faith-based contexts. Together these partner schools will be hosting a Pinwheel for Prevention event at ENSA.

HOW BOB JONES UNIVERSITY TEACHER EDUCATION DIVISION PREVENTS CHILD ABUSE:ENSA and Hollis Academies provide teachers and students with abuse/

prevention training in a variety of ways throughout the year, including faculty professional development and focused lessons in the classroom. BJU provides Darkness to Light, Stewards of Children training to all early childhood majors annually and partner with Greenville County School social workers for additional training in mandatory reporting. Early Childhood Education (ECE) majors complete over 300 service-learning hours in

various local nonprofit programs and help host Greenville’s ECE event, Picnic in the Park.

EVENT SPOTLIGHT:WE’RE ALL IN THIS TOGETHER: !ESTAMOS TODOS JUNTOS EN ESTOApril 18, 2016 | 6:00-7:00PM | Open to the public

WE’RE ALL IN THIS TOGETHER: !ESTAMOS TODOS JUNTOS EN ESTO! E. North Street Academy and BJU will host a PTA Prevention Event at ENSA. The evening will feature a bilingual, abuse-prevention presentation, pinwheel activities for families, and free children's books for attendees.

EAST NORTH STREET MATHEMATICS AND SCIENCE ACADEMY

HOLLIS ACADEMY

ON APRIL 8TH -- IT’S WEAR BLUE DAY!

DON'T FORGET TO


Greenville First Steps24 Cleveland St., Greenville, SC 29601 | 864-239-3720 | www.greenvillefirststeps.org

Itsy Bitsy Spider Stick

Puppets

Hand Painted Garden Rocks

Face Painting

Dress Up Like

Junie B. Jones

Sensory Bins

Pack a picnic lunch and

enjoy having lunch on the

Green!

#KidsFestGreenville

@greenvillewoyc

Fingerprint Flowers

Presents

KIDS FEST @Heritage Green

April 9, 201610am-12pm

ORGANIZATION INFORMATION:Greenville First Steps, the organization behind the scenes of Greenville's Child Abuse Prevention Month awareness campaign, is a local nonprofit that uses state, federal, and private funds to support programs to measurably improve school readiness outcomes for children. We achieve this goal by partnering with public and private organizations (including childcare providers, churches, schools, neighborhoods, and businesses). Our goal is to support families as their child's first and most important teacher.

HOW GREENVILLE FIRST STEPS PREVENTS CHILD ABUSE:Greenville First Steps strives to increase opportunities for families to better understand how to best care for their children. Parents who better understand what to expect from their child and how to handle parenting problems are more likely to create strong, nurturing homes. We provide financial supports for many parenting and family strengthening programs like Little Steps and Nurse Family Partnership.

EVENT SPOTLIGHT:Kids Fest at Heritage GreenApril 9, 2016 | 10:00am-12:00pm | Open to the public

As we celebrate the Week of the Young Child, Kids Fest at Heritage Green is an opportunity for families with children 1-5 to join the entities of Heritage Green for fun, age

appropriate activities.


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D R E G N A _______________________________E B E _____________________________________Y M A ____________________________________G N R I P S ________________________________H S S N I E U N ____________________________Y B N U N ________________________________C A M H R ________________________________E D E S ___________________________________P A Y H P _________________________________

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Gilmore Prep Academy1271 S Suber Rd., Suite B, Greer, SC 29650 | 864-655-5845 | www.gilmoreprep.com

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ORGANIZATION INFORMATION:Gilmore Prep Academy is a preschool for early childhood literacy for 3, 4, and 5 year old children and an afterschool program for K/5-fifth grade students. We are dedicated to partnering with parents and providing quality instruction in a nurturing environment. We serve approximately 50 families.

HOW GILMORE PREP ACADEMY PREVENTS CHILD ABUSE:We participate in Child Abuse Prevention Month awareness every year, and provide parents with information about academic and/or social issues their child may experience.

EVENT SPOTLIGHT:Family Fun DayApril 16, 2016 | 4:00-6:00pm | Open to the public

There will be various stations set up that families can re-create at their homes. These activities can foster a great bonding experience. The activities are as follows: Wii Station, Lego Station, Board Games, and Arts and Crafts, and Reading Corner. Food and drinks will be provided.

www.augustaheights.com3018 Augusta Street, Greenville, SC 29605

Thank you to Augusta Heights Baptist Church for sponsoring the

pinwheels for the 3rd Annual Walk for Prevention.

BEAR LOVES HONEYHelp Be ar f ind his way to Bee and the honey.

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Julie Valentine Center2905 White Horse Rd., Greenville, SC 29611 | 864-301-0560 | www.julievalentinecenter.org

God made the world so broad and grand,

Filled with blessings from his hand.

He made the sky so high and blue,

And all the little children, too.– Anonymous

For more information, please visit www.pelhamroad.org

1108 Pelham RoadGreenville, SC 29615

Church: 864-288-3283 CDC: 864-288-7674

ORGANIZATION INFORMATION:The Mission of Julie Valentine Center is to stop sexual violence and child abuse and the impact of these crimes through prevention, collaboration, treatment and advocacy. There are three overarching goals of JVC services: to provide services that stop child abuse and sexual assault before it happens; to reduce trauma and re-establish safety for victims and their families; and to engage survivors in the healing process through compassionate, comprehensive treatment. All services are offered at no cost to clients. JVC provides services in three core program areas: rape crisis, prevention and education, and child advocacy.

HOW THE JULIE VALENTINE CENTER PREVENTS CHILD ABUSE:Services are provided for children and families through JVC's nationally accredited Children’s Advocacy Center. JVC provides a child and family friendly environment that promotes a multidisciplinary approach to assessment, intervention and treatment of child abuse and other

related trauma. JVC provides forensic medical exams, forensic interviews, individual and family therapy, support and therapy groups, and intensive case management for non- offending caregivers through the Family Advocate program. Education and prevention programs are conducted in Greenville County schools, churches, daycare centers, and public and private agencies each year. Parent support and education groups are provided for families in multiple community sites.

EVENT SPOTLIGHT:JVC My Hero ChallengeApril 1st-30th | Open to the public

Children will create a drawing of “My Hero.” Participants will upload a picture of their drawing to the JVC Facebook page using #JVCmyherochallenge and #CAPmonthGreenville (Participants must like the JVC Facebook page to enter the contest). Entries will be divided into three age groups. Winners will receive a family fun package.


Small Impressions Child Development Center4514 Old Spartanburg Rd., Taylors, SC 29697 | 864-609-5099 | www.smallimpressionscdc.org

ORGANIZATION INFORMATION:Our mission is to educate, motivate, and accelerate children to a higher standard of learning by exposing and engaging them in age appropriate experiences that will assist with shaping who they are and who they will become as an adult. We are committed to working closely with parents, guardians, and family members toward the welfare of the whole family.

HOW SMALL IMPRESSIONS CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER PREVENTS CHILD ABUSE:Small Impressions serves as a social service connector for the families of the students enrolled. We service the family as a whole not just the students. We utilize relationships in the social services arena to ensure that there are no obstacles placed in the lives of the children and their parents to prevent them from maximizing their academic potential and living situation. Whether it is assisting parents with obtaining employment, shelter, medical insurance, child care vouchers, attending appointments with parent to see medical professionals, or attending school conferences with parents.

EVENT SPOTLIGHT:Reformatting the MindApril 22, 2016 | 6:30pm | Open to the public

We seek to use this program to bring families together-under one roof-regardless of age, race, or socio-economic status. It’s not the single mother’s problem. And it’s not the overworked grandparents’ problem. If one child is hurt unnecessarily, it is everyone’s problem. “Reformatting The Mind,” will be an informative, hands-on program that illustrates not only does child abuse have a face, it often has preventative measures. Each speaker will take key trigger areas, and provide the group with scenarios, techniques, and information that will help decrease the instances of child abuse.


YouthBASE813 Hampton Ave., Greenville, SC 29601 | 864-520-1301 | www.youth-base.org

ORGANIZATION INFORMATION:YouthBASE offers an afterschool and summer program program for at-riskchildren in grades K-5 - 2nd grades who are below grade level and have been identified as having behavior, academic, social and/or emotional needs. The children attend our neighborhood schools and are recommended by their teachers. They attend free of charge and transportation is provided. During the school year, the children receive help on their homework, tutoring in math and reading, and go on weekly field trips. YouthBASE provides a monthly “Family Night” and parent engagement programs including weekly English classes for parents and neighborhood residents.

HOW YOUTHBASE PREVENTS CHILD ABUSE:YouthBASE offers parent and family engagement programs based on The Strengthening Families Approach and 5 Protective Factors. The understanding is that strong families build strong children. Our programs are designed to increase family time and provide parenting information and support to parents. YouthBASE staff works hard to build relationships with parents to encourage open communication so if there is an issue at home we can quickly connect them with community organizations and resources that can help.

EVENT SPOTLIGHT:Family CelebrationApril 23, 2016 | 2:00-4:00pm | Open to the public

Our Family Celebration is open to our YouthBASE families as well as our neighbors in our Southernside neighborhood. We welcome children of all ages, and request that they be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Children and parents will have fun participating in our activities together. YouthBASE’s Family Celebration will be a time for families to have fun together. There will be community organizations represented and activities such as MobiRec truck, a book giveaway, Cake Walk, and prizes. Our goal is to engage parents and their children as they learn about strengthening their families.


What Role Can I Possibly Play in Child Abuse Prevention?

Every child deserves a great childhood. We can all agree on this. But if you’re not abusing or neglecting your own children, you’re probably wondering why “prevention messaging” is relevant to you. Besides, you’re busy with your own work and family responsibilities. How do you have the time or expertise to help prevent child abuse?

Your questions and reservations are valid. Your intentions are good. Your heart feels compassion for those in need. So how can someone like you make a difference when you’re already stretched thin and unsure of how you can help?

At Pickens County First Steps, we want to empower regular people like you and me toward everyday intention. We don’t believe that child abuse prevention should be a separate part of our lives. Rather, we believe that difference making should be woven into the fabric of our everyday rhythms.

Here are THREE simple and meaningful ways that YOU can help prevent child abuse, right where you are. 1. PAY ATTENTION.That mom in the grocery store at 5:30 pm with four kids and circles under her eyes? She’s running on fumes. The daily grind is hard enough without a toddler falling apart in the checkout line. Too much stress, in the form of sleep-deprivation, financial hardship, and family instability can push even a loving parent to snap.

But what if you could be the unexpected grace that steadies a stressed-out parent and helps them survive the day? Yes, you. It begins with noticing her.

Buy a cold Dr. Pepper from the checkout cooler and say something like, “I bet it’s been a long day. Take it, I insist. You’re doing an awesome job, keeping your family fed and corralling these energetic kids. Deep breaths. You’re gonna make it.”

There are countless ways this scenario might play out across your community but they

all have the same simple tasks in common — paying attention and offering practical kindness. Your compassion may provide the crucial pause a frazzled parent needs to keep calm and carry on.

2. TAKE A MEAL TO A NEW MOM.Every new parent is vulnerable to breakdown, particularly if the baby cries excessively or doesn’t sleep. When parents experience inordinate stress, chronic exhaustion, or postpartum depression, they’re far more prone to striking out at their children.

We need look no further than the local news to see tragic stories that take place in our own community. Perhaps we need look no further than our own experience of being so exhausted and frustrated, we have to walk away or leave the house for a bit to keep from hurting a child we love. New parents are weary. And single parents are particularly at risk. This is why we need one another. Meals may seem like a small gesture but they pay huge dividends to the new mom and her family.

3. YOU HAVE WHAT SOMEONE ELSE NEEDS. GIVE GENEROUSLY.Parents both above and below the poverty line suffer from financial stress that piles on top of everyday burdens, threatening the stability of their family and the stability of their emotional health. When that happens, the safety and

security of children are also at risk.

When the bills are piling up and the baby is crying.

When the creditors won’t stop calling and the kids won’t stop fighting.

When the bank is threatening foreclosure and the toddler just threw shoes in the toilet.

There are families in need all around you. Don’t let their social status fool you. Any family can be one job loss or one costly emergency away from dire financial straits and the stress that results.

Do you have resources that can ease someone’s burden? What you deem disposable, another family receives as essential – the clothes your child has outgrown, the gently used sofa you just replaced, non-perishables in your pantry. If you don’t know of someone, ask your school, church, or after-school program.

These are right-now ways to give what you already have to lighten the load of a burdened parent. And if you’re able to give in other ways, whether it’s a grocery store gift card or paying someone’s utility bill, do it.

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Prevent Child Abuse America reminds us of this: “Anything you do to support kids and parents can help reduce the isolation and stress that often leads to abuse and neglect.”

As you strive to provide great childhoods for those in your own family, don’t neglect the great childhoods waiting to bloom all around you. Simple gestures matter. So pay attention, make an extra casserole, and give away what you already have. YOU can make a difference, right where you are.

Visit our blog at www.pickenscountyfirststeps.org/blog for regular encouragement on how you can nurture the young children in your life!

By Marian Vischer, Communications Coordinator, Pickens County First Steps

Be a part of building great childhoods.

Join us for the 3rd Annual

Walk for PreventionPresented by Augusta Heights Baptist Church

Celebrating April - Child Abuse Prevention Month

Sunday April 24th2:00pm

Starting at First Baptist Church-Greenville

Suggested $10 donationRegister at

http://2016WalkforPrevention.kintera.org

@CAPmonthGvl


greenville first steps - spring 2016

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