Every year, more than 3 million children witness acts of domestic violence in their homes. The majority of these attacks are never reported, but the repercussions of this violence are far reaching.

Being raised in a violent home greatly increases the likelihood of a child growing up and continuing the cycle of violence and victimization. Boys who witness abuse are more likely to become abusers of both spouses and their children, and girls have an increased likelihood of becoming victims themselves.

Domestic violence can include any type of physical, emotional or sexual abuse. Generally, an abuser will engage in behavior that is used to exert power and establish control over another person, usually through intimidation, threats or other violent actions. If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse, there is help. Continue reading Taking A Stand Against Domestic Violence »

When we join a social networking site, we are connecting to our existing friends, classmates, coworkers, family, and potentially making new friends all over the world. Most of us have seen how quick and easy it is to share our life experiences across a large group of people. Whether it’s a photo of a new baby, or a quick status update recounting the day.

But along with that casual convenience, you always have to consider what information you are putting out there, and who might be able to see it. Most of the time that includes your intended audience of online friends, but sometimes your personal information can spread out beyond your known circle. The web allows for information to travel extremely quickly, and unfortunately we can’t always control who ends up having access.

As in every situation, prevention is your best weapon, and so being aware of the dangers in others accessing your personal information means you can take the necessary steps to protect your personal information. And if you’ve got kids with active online lives, you should be sure to have a conversation with them about savvy web surfing as well. Continue reading Smart Web Surfing for Teens »

When your young kids begin to get more active, you will probably be thinking about whether it might be the right time for your kid to carry a cell phone. You know how indispensable a cellphone has become in your own life, whether for work or keeping connected to your family.

And as our lives all become increasingly fast-paced, a cell phone can be a helpful tool that facilitates both convenience and most importantly our kids’ safety. When it comes to your children carrying one, age is a major consideration, and though many parents are choosing to equip younger and younger children with phones, it’s ultimately up to you to decide what age is appropriate.

Additionally, there are plenty of other considerations to keep in mind before you make the purchase for your child, which you should discuss with them once you do decide to move forward. When is it appropriate for them to use it? How much use is appropriate? What should they do if they get a call or message from someone they don’t know? How can you protect personal information from being shared with inappropriate people? Continue reading Is Your Child Ready For A Cellphone? »

Many of us have been thrust full on into the chaos of holiday shopping, diving headfirst into the rush to find that much-wanted gift for our kids. But despite the excitement and joy in your kids eyes when unwrapping that brand new toy, the holidays aren’t without dangers.

According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, more than 250,000 kids were sent to the emergency room in 2009 as a result of toy-related injuries, a large number of these children under the age of 5.

For the past 25 years, the U.S. Public Interest Research Group has compiled a report entitled Trouble in Toyland, an annual survey of toys that could be hazardous to children of various age groups, and has led to recalls and regulatory action. Some of these injuries include choking, strangulation, cuts from sharp edges, and even poisoning from toxic chemicals used in manufacturing.

According to the PIRG, choking is the leading cause of toy-related injuries. The Trouble in Toyland report offers safety guidelines to help parents in shopping for toys for their kids, giving examples of some of the dangers that may be present in even some of the most popular toys. The U.S. PIRG also offers a helpful interactive mobile site accessible via smartphone so you can refer to some of the hazards or recalled toys while you are out shopping. Continue reading Shopping for Safe Toys During the Holidays »