BookShelf
New videotape explains public’s
obligation to report child abuse

When Linda Webb, UI Extension 4-H youth development specialist in Boise, shopped around for a videotape that would teach new volunteers about Idaho’s child-abuse reporting law, she couldn’t find one that met 4-H program needs. She wanted something short and to-the-point, with a matter-of-fact tone, that would clarify exactly what volunteers should do when they suspect physical or sexual abuse or neglect.

After a disappointing search for an existing product, Webb looked for partners to make a new one. This winter, a 10:34-minute videotape directed by UI CALS’ Educational Communications videographer Brad Beckman, written by communications specialist Marlene Fritz, and funded by the Governor’s Task Force on Children at Risk will be available to youth organizations, schools, news media, churches, and parent and community groups.

“It reminds the public at large that we have an obligation to keep our eyes open and to protect children,” says Boise attorney and task force chairman Kirtlan Naylor.

Shirley Alexander, child welfare program manager for Children and Family Services’ central office in Boise, agrees. “It addresses many of the questions and fears that members of the public have and may well increase their inclination to report.”

The video costs $25 plus s/h from CALS Publications, 208.885.7982, fax 208.885.4648, or calspubs@uidaho.edu. --by Marlene Fritz