April is Child Abuse Awareness month and witnessing Domestic Violence is considered abuse. Family violence is not something people talk about. It's been a secret in the family until someone is brave enough to speak up and do something to stop it.

And, unfortunately, the children in the family suffer because of it.

But a book has been written to try and HELP those children whose father is taken away.

'The Night Dad Went to Jail: What to Expect When Someone You Love Goes to Jail' is written by Melissa Higgins and beautifully illustrated by Wednesday Kirwan. It shows a sad little bunny on the front drawing a picture of him and his dad.

It's unfortunate children have to go through something so terrible. But at least there is someone out there trying to ease their pain. Kids LOVE books....and bunnies! Sometimes a book can help better explain what's going on than listening to a stranger.

According to Lynn Dailey of the Family Violence Project, while they do not distribute that particular book, they do give out the book 'When Dad Hurts Mom: Helping Your Children Heal the Wounds of Witnessing Abuse' by Lundy Bancroft.

She says "It's natural to have an alliance to both parents and it's hard for them when one is making bad choices. Kids love both parents. In fact, boys often learn to agree with their dad. Hence...abuse is a learned behavior. 50 percent of girls witnessing Domestic Violence end up becoming victims. 76 percent of boys witnessing become abusers. Effects of domestic violence starts in utero. It is much worse for children birth to three because it affects their brain development."

If you are being abused or know someone who is or would just like to ask questions, please call their hotline at 1-877-890-7788. It's there 24 hours a day.

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