Protecting Young Children at Risk

Research continues to prove the impact of early childhood development on an individual's health and successful adjustment throughout life.

During the critical time of infancy to pre-school age, children develop emotional, social, intellectual and physical traits they will carry with them into adulthood. Children who are exposed to physical abuse, sexual abuse or other violence early in life can suffer permanent psychological and physical consequences. To succeed in school and in life, all young children must have appropriate nurturing in a safe environment, as well as positive stimuli, peer interaction, and educational activities.

The Family Place Children's Program provides specialized early childhood education for children from birth to five years old who have experienced or been exposed to family violence. Through positive guidance techniques and developmentally appropriate practices, the Children's Program staff help remedy developmental delays, promote a positive self-image and teach age-appropriate responsibilities. Children may attend this state-licensed and nationally accredited child care center daily, until they are ready for typical programming or for kindergarten. One recent indication of the program's high quality is their receiving a 4-Star Rating, which is the state's highest quality rating for child care centers. Family Place was the first in Jefferson County to have this honor.

Crisis Care is a preventative service for children birth to age five who are at risk of stress-related maltreatment or neglect caused by a temporary family emergency. Children can typically receive childcare services for a few days to a week.

The Family Place: A Child Abuse Treatment Agency 1800 Neville Drive Louisville, KY 40216 (502) 636-2801 FAX: (502) 636-2857