Children are incredibly observant, picking up on changes in behavior that adults might not notice. Witnessing domestic violence during their developmental years can have a lasting impact on the child’s mental health. While children at different ages respond in various ways, these experiences can normalize violence and shape how it is understood.
Several years ago, a mother and her two children entered Sojourner Center’s Emergency Shelter. She shared with our staff before moving into shelter that when she took her son to the grocery store, he always insisted on using the same checkout lane, even if it meant waiting longer. One night, following a domestic violence incident, she went to check on her children. Her sons said, “Mom, I remember the number.” Confused, she asked what he meant. “The phone number at the grocery store, that’s why I always pick that lane, so I can remember,” he replied. She realized her son memorized the domestic violence hotline number posted on a sticker at the register. At that moment, she knew it was time to leave. She wanted to free her children from the impacts of violence and start fresh at Sojourner Center.
April is Child Abuse Awareness Month. Stand in solidarity with families and children by wearing blue on April 10th. Wear Blue Day helps raise awareness and prevention for children experiencing abuse. Sojourner Center provides trauma-informed services that recognize the profound impact domestic violence has on children and families, supporting them as they rebuild their lives free from violence. Learn more about our programs here: https://www.sojournercenter.org/programs/
March 2026