Families Change Kids Guide to Separation & Divorce

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People Getting Hurt?

Skye: Sometimes in families, kids or parents get hurt.

When people get really upset, they have a lot of feelings. It’s OK to have strong feelings, but it’s not OK to hit or slap or push or hurt someone. That rule is the same for both kids and grown-ups.

If someone in your family is in DANGER of getting hurt RIGHT NOW:

  • Call 9-1-1 (go to another room or a neighbour’s place to call if you can).
  • Don’t get in the middle. Don’t try to protect the person who is being hurt.
  • Stay away. Find a safe place in the house or at a neighbour’s.

If you are not feeling safe at home:

  • Tell someone like your teacher, school counsellor, doctor, or another grown-up that you trust.
  • Call the Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-387-5437 or the Family Violence Info Line at 310-1818 (no area code needed)

Sometimes it feels scary to tell someone outside your family that people are being hurt. But it’s very important that you do it. And sometimes people don’t hear you the first time you tell them, or even the second time. Keep trying until you get the help you need.

There are people who can help you and your family. There are people who work with kids, and people who work with parents, to make things better.

Remember:

  • You’re not alone. This happens to lots of kids.
  • It’s NOT your fault.
  • You have the right to be safe.
  • You are very brave for trying to help yourself and your family.