
Understanding the Issue
Child abuse doesn’t happen in a vacuum. It often occurs when parents face stressful challenges like poverty or mental health and substance-use issues. As the home of Prevent Child Abuse Minnesota, FamilyWise is committed to connecting both families and the wider community to resources and information that explain the roots and impact of child abuse, and how we can collectively work to prevent it.
Adverse Childhood Experiences
Child abuse and neglect are considered Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), and the trauma they cause has been linked to negative outcomes and challenges later in life. Learn more about ACEs here.
Child Abuse in Minnesota
It is important to note that child abuse can take many forms, with neglect being the most common. Read more about how Minnesota defines maltreatment, and how the state handles reporting abuse.
Subscribe to NewsWise
Join our email list for child abuse prevention news and resources.

Introducing our 2023 Pinwheel for Prevention Awardees
Each year during Child Abuse Prevention Month, FamilyWise honors organizations and collaboratives with Pinwheel for Prevention Awards in recognition of their efforts …
Read More
Helping Families Navigate Domestic Violence
When it comes to helping families stay safe, resilient, and strong, domestic violence is one of the most serious and …
Read More
Child Abuse is Preventable
Child abuse and neglect often occur when a parent is struggling to manage heightened levels of stress, often in conjunction …
Read More
Child Abuse Prevention: Finding Support
by Ann Gaasch, FamilyWise CEO For many families, spring is the time to get our bikes ready. Bikes symbolize many …
Read More
What is NEAR Science?
NEAR Science stands for Neurobiology, Epigenetics, Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and Resilience research. NEAR Science represents a paradigm shift in …
Read More