| Click here to read a report about a dynamic
talk by Lynn Loar about violence and how it affects children on the coast.
The first meeting of CMC moms concerned about the issue of violence was held
in September. The importance of taking preventive measures in the home, school,
and community starting when children are young to was discussed. We discussed
the fact that even rural communities like ours are not immune from violence
and that this is not a problem that will go away by itself.
Information on the group Mothers Against Violence in America (MAVIA) and
their program for schools, Students Against Violence Everywhere (SAVE) was
shared.
The following is from MAVIA and group members:
Ways to Stop Violence:
- Reject violence (physical or verbal) as a means of solving problems or
disputes. Model good communication and conflict resolution skills in your
home.
- Take an interest in your child's friends. Learn how they spend their free
time. Get to know their parents.
- Find out whether or not schools in your community offer effective conflict
resolution, anger management and/or counseling with follow-through.
- If there are children in your home, the decision to own a gun should be
considered very seriously. If you choose to own a gun, make certain it is
stored in a locked place children do not have access to. If your child will
be under another parent's supervision in their home, ask if they own a gun
and voice concerns about safety.
- Refuse to buy products made by companies whose advertising supports violent
images and let them know about your decision.
- Support legislation that addresses the causes and manifestations of violence.
- Become more involved in the community and schools.
For more information about Mothers Against Violence, contact Diana.
by Diana Mitchell
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