Child Abuse Prevention Month

Minnesota strives to be the best state in the nation to raise a child. Yet in our state, a child dies from abuse or neglect about every two weeks.These deaths are preventable.

We can do better. We must do better.

Safe Passage for Children of Minnesota and Never Shake Minnesota are working together to raise awareness about child abuse and maltreatment across our state. It isn’t easy to talk about. But awareness, education, and action saves lives.

The Reality in Minnesota

Each year, at least 5,000 Minnesota children are confirmed victims of abuse or neglect following an investigation — enough children to stretch more than two miles if they stood in a single line.
On average, 20–30 children die annually as a result of maltreatment — roughly one child every two weeks.
Most abuse happens in a child’s own home, at the hands of a caregiver.
The majority of perpetrators are biological parents.
Children under age 3 face the highest risk of serious injury or death. They are more likely to accidentally ingest drugs or suffer from shaken baby syndrome (also known as abusive head trauma).
One in four victims of Shaken Baby Syndrome (also known as Abusive Head Trauma) die as a result of their injuries. The victims who survive are often left with serious and long term health conditions.
About 80% of reports to child protection come from mandated reporters — professionals legally required to report suspected abuse — but anyone can make a report.

Because abuse happens behind closed doors, children depend on adults to notice — and to act.

take action

If You Are A Parent or Caregiver

If You Believe a Child May Have Been Maltreated (Abused or Neglected)

Parenting is demanding. Stress, exhaustion, financial pressure, and a crying child can feel overwhelming. What matters most is what you do in those difficult moments

If you feel yourself losing control:

Put your baby or toddler in a safe place, like a crib or pack-and-play, and step away for a few minutes. Remember, babies cry more often fr

Parenting is demanding. Stress, exhaustion, financial pressure, and a crying child can feel overwhelming. What matters most is what you do in those difficult moments

If you feel yourself losing control:

Put your baby or toddler in a safe place, like a crib or pack-and-play, and step away for a few minutes. Remember, babies cry more often from 2 months to 6 months old.
Take slow, deep breaths. Step outside briefly if needed.
Call a trusted friend, family member, or neighbor for support. Build a support system of people who can help when you feel overwhelmed.
Reach out to a parenting support or crisis resource in your community.

It is never okay to hit or shake a child. Shaking a baby can cause permanent brain injury or death in seconds.

If stress feels constant or overwhelming, seek help early. Talk to your pediatrician. Ask about parenting classes or early childhood programs. Explore counseling or family support services in your county. Asking for help is a sign of strength.

Children are safest when caregivers are supported.

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If You Believe a Child May Have Been Maltreated (Abused or Neglected)

You do not need proof to report suspected physical, mental or sexual abuse — only reasonable suspicion. You do not need proof to report suspected neglect either.

Trained professionals will determine whether an investigation is needed.

Possible warning signs include:

Unexplained injuries or injuries that don’t match the explanation. For exam

You do not need proof to report suspected physical, mental or sexual abuse — only reasonable suspicion. You do not need proof to report suspected neglect either.

Trained professionals will determine whether an investigation is needed.

Possible warning signs include:

Unexplained injuries or injuries that don’t match the explanation. For example, babies who aren’t mobile shouldn’t bruise.
Burns, fractures or frequent bruising
Extreme withdrawal, fearfulness, or sudden behavior changes.
Signs of neglect such as chronic hunger, poor hygiene, lack of supervision. Note that neglect is the most common form of child maltreatment and occurs when a parent refuses to provide necessary housing, food, medical care and other basic necessities when reasonably able to do so.
A caregiver who appears violent, impaired, or unconcerned about injuries.
Access to illegal drugs, paraphernalia or unsecured firearms.

If something feels wrong:

Contact your county child protection agency, local law enforcement, or your local Tribal child welfare agency.
Seek medical attention if you have concerns that your child may be the victim of abuse.
If a child is in immediate danger, call 911.

In Minnesota, child maltreatment is legally defined under Minn. Stat. § 260E.03 as acts or omissions by a caregiver—including neglect, physical abuse, sexual abuse, mental injury, or threatened injury—that cause or threaten to cause harm to a child’s health or welfare.

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Advocate, Donate, Share

If You Believe a Child May Have Been Maltreated (Abused or Neglected)

Advocate, Donate, Share

Make a Donation

Your financial support helps fund:

Public awareness campaigns
Legislative advocacy and policy reform
Mandated reportereducation
Research and data transparency efforts
Needed care for victims of Shaken Baby Syndrome

Every dollar helps amplify the voice of children and strengthen the systems meant to protect them.

Never Shake | Saf

Make a Donation

Your financial support helps fund:

Public awareness campaigns
Legislative advocacy and policy reform
Mandated reportereducation
Research and data transparency efforts
Needed care for victims of Shaken Baby Syndrome

Every dollar helps amplify the voice of children and strengthen the systems meant to protect them.

Never Shake | Safe Passage for Children of Minnesota

Become a Volunteer Advocate

Volunteer advocates can:

Contact legislators about child safety legislation – join us at the Capitol on April 14 and all throughout the year.
Help spread awareness through social media
Assist with events and outreach efforts
Offer to help a struggling, stressed parent with child care

You do not need prior experience — just a commitment to protecting children.

Together, we can build a Minnesota where every child is safe, seen, and supported.

Contact Never Shake | Safe Passage for Children of Minnesota

Share Your Story

Personal stories change hearts and influence policy.

If you are a survivor, a parent, a professional, or someone impacted by the child protection system, your voice matters.

Sharing your experience can:

Raise awareness
Reduce stigma
Inform lawmakers
Inspire others to speak up

Contact Never Shake | Safe Passage for Children of Minnesota

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