Statewide Iowa (RI) — A nonprofit that works to prevent and respond to child abuse and neglect says Iowa needs to do more to help.
State data shows child abuse reports have dropped since 2022, but Danica Haas, who heads the Iowa Chapter of Children’s Advocacy Centers, says it doesn’t mean there is less abuse, but that it’s likely underreported.
Haas says a law change has been challenging to their program because parents have to approve educational programs for their kids.
The nonprofit works with schools to teach children about neglect, bullying, sexual abuse, and other safety concerns.
Haas says Iowa should require body safety education in all schools, especially since the vast majority of children personally know their alleged offenders.
A bill that would have required sexual abuse awareness education for K-6 failed to advance in the Iowa legislature this year.
Haas says Iowa should require preventative education that teaches children how to identify safety concerns, like physical abuse, neglect, or bullying.
KIWA Staff Photo
