A child who has witnessed violence in the home may have serious problems in school. Without intervention, a child exposed to violence may be more likely to become involved in violent relationships as an adult.

Problems with school may range from barriers to enrolling in a new school to difficulties with reading and behavior problems. Many of these children have been referred for special education services by the Board of Education. Sometimes these problems stem from the psychological effects of exposure to violence or abuse. They may also stem from the frequent movement from place to place and instability that occurs when fleeing violence. Without information about their rights, parents may not be able to advocate effectively for their children in the New York City public schools. Without representation, parents may not be able to obtain necessary and appropriate educational services for their children.

Children who are exposed to violence in the home may:

• Become more angry or aggressive
• Become scared of being separated from a parent or leaving home
• Begin acting immature for their age
• Have trouble sleeping
• Have trouble concentrating
• Become worried and fearful
• Lose interest in friends and school
• Seem “numb” or act as if they do not feel any emotions
• Have dropping grades
• Be labeled hyperactive and be prescribed medication such as Ritalin

These reactions may be temporary or they may last for a long time. Often, they affect children’s schoolwork or ability to attend school.

If your child has been affected by witnessing violence in the home and is having problems in school, the Domestic Violence Project can help.

Services are completely confidential.

The Domestic Violence Project at Advocates for Children

The Domestic Violence Project was created to address the acute educational needs of children who have been exposed to violence. It provides case management and advocacy to families who have had a history of violence and whose children are having difficulty in school. The Project handles a wide range of school-related issues including early intervention, special education, suspensions, and school access and transfer issues.

The Domestic Violence Project can assist you by providing:

• Free training and technical advice for staff members
• Free training and information for parents
• Assistance for individual families

To obtain assistance, contact Gisela Alvarez at 212-947-9779, ext. 42

Services are completely confidential.

About Advocates for Children

Advocates for Children of New York, Inc. (AFC) was organized in 1970 to ensure equal educational opportunities, and promote quality education services, for New York City's 1,000,000 public school students. AFC's commitment is to those children at greatest risk due to disabling conditions, poverty, race or sex discrimination, or inadequate academic preparation. AFC's program is carried out by a multi-racial, bilingual staff of attorneys, lay advocates, and researchers. Our multi-faceted program services New York City's children through individual case advocacy, training and community organizing, research and administrative negotiation, and litigation.

Advocates for Children
151 West 30th St., 5th Floor
New York, NY 10012
Phone: (212) 947-9779, ext. 42
Fax: (212) 947-9790
Email: galvarez@advocatesforchildren.org