This section provides resources on best practices for family-centered support services to address domestic violence, including State and local examples.
The Child Witness to Violence Project
Department of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, Boston Medical Center
Provides counseling, advocacy, training, and outreach focusing on children who are bystanders to community and domestic violence.
CWLA Standards of Excellence for Services to Strengthen and Preserve Families With Children
Child Welfare League of America, Inc. (2003)
View Abstract
Describe best practices for family-centered services that support and strengthen families to prevent child maltreatment.
Domestic Violence and Family Support Programs: Creating Opportunities to Help Young Children and Their Families (PDF - 1254 KB)
Ahsan (2004)
Provides strategies for preparing family support programs to address domestic violence, creating a safe place for victims within family support programs, responding to families experiencing domestic violence, working with children affected by domestic violence, and working with the batterer.
State and local examples
Guidelines on the Co-Occurrence of Domestic Violence and Child Maltreatment (PDF - 555 KB)
Safe From the Start (2004)
Presents recommendations derived from a collaborative effort of professionals and community leaders in Johnson County, Kansas, to better address the co-occurrence of domestic violence and child maltreatment.
Quality Child Welfare Practice With Families Affected by Domestic Violence: A Strategic Plan (PDF - 133 KB)
New York Administration for Children's Services (2003)
Presents a strategic plan for developing an integrated, comprehensive, and cohesive response to domestic violence in New York City's Administration for Children's Services.