Violence against children is a major developmental concern.  We are aware of these two very public cases, but some of our children/patients don't offer up their stories until many years later.  Recovery requires a team approach which includes family (if there is one), teachers, pediatricians, and therapists.  it takes years.  when this kind of tragedy happens, some states have "child abuse centers" and in fact it is a sub specialty of some pediatricians at hospital centers.  the NJ 7 year old was treated at such a center and all her support will come from there with the assistance of the school superintendent and mayor.  The Audrey Hepburn (movie star) Foundation has been instrumental in centering law enforcement and medical/social services in one spot for children so they are not remanded all over the hospital and police stations.  One such center exists at Hackensack University Medical Center in NJ and it is called The Little Red School House. It is off campus so as to be non threatening.

Every community needs to know what resources exist and if they don't, develop them as a priority for children.

Wayne Yankus, MD, FAAP
expert panelist: pediatrics