Would you be able to recognize an abused child?
The signs aren't always obvious. That's why the Delta Dental Foundation offers its PANDA (Prevent Abuse and Neglect through Dental Awareness) educational program to those who are in regular contact with children.
PANDA was originally created for dentists, who are well positioned to detect child abuse. Two out of three injuries occur to the head, face, and neck areas, which are readily visible during a dental exam.
The PANDA program recently expanded to include medical professionals, teachers, school nurses, youth group leaders, and other community group leaders who can assist in the fight to combat devastating patterns of abusive behavior. According to the U.S. Administration for Children and Families, an estimated 903,000 children were victims of maltreatment in 2001. More than half (57%) of the cases investigated or assessed by state child-protective-services agencies were reported by professionals, including law enforcement, teachers and members of the medical community.
PANDA presentations provide detailed information on physical and behavioral indicators of child abuse and neglect. They teach how to report suspected abuse and how to deal with the sensitive issues involved in filing a report.
The PANDA presentation is a one- to three-hour slide program and workshop conducted by trained professionals. If you are interested in scheduling a presentation for a youth or community group in New Jersey, please call (973) 944-4555.
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