April marks Child Abuse Prevention Month, a time that calls for both awareness and action. It is a moment to confront the realities many children face while also leaning into prevention, education, and the strength of community support. At the center of this critical work are advocates like Dr. Kendra K. Ham, MD, a double board-certified pediatrician in General Pediatrics and Child Abuse Pediatrics and Associate Professor at Wake Forest University School of Medicine.
Dr. Ham’s career reflects a deep commitment to protecting children and equipping families with the tools they need to create safe, supportive environments. With a strong academic foundation that includes degrees from the College of Charleston and medical training at the Medical University of South Carolina, followed by residency at the Medical College of Georgia, she has dedicated her expertise to one of the most sensitive and essential areas of pediatric care. Her advanced fellowship training in Child Abuse Pediatrics further underscores her specialized role in advocating for vulnerable children.
Through her work on a Children’s Child Protection Team, which collaborates with multiple child advocacy centers and inpatient consultation services, Dr. Ham plays a pivotal role in responding to cases of suspected abuse. Her voice is not only heard in clinical settings but also on international stages, where she continues to educate and inform broader audiences about child protection.
For Dr. Ham, keeping children safe begins with awareness. She emphasizes that communities must work collectively to educate both caregivers and children about potential risks and prevention strategies. Ensuring access to appropriate childcare is one of the foundational steps. As children grow and develop language skills, open and age-appropriate conversations about body safety and household boundaries become essential. Just as important is empowering children to speak up when something does not feel right, creating an environment where their voices are heard and respected.
Parents and caregivers also play a critical role in recognizing when a child may need additional support. According to Dr. Ham, sudden or significant behavioral changes can be key indicators. A child who becomes withdrawn, anxious, or begins acting out may be responding to something deeper. These shifts should never be ignored. Instead, they should prompt attentive listening and, when necessary, professional guidance.
Child advocacy centers serve as a vital resource for families navigating these difficult situations. These centers provide a coordinated, multidisciplinary approach to suspected abuse, offering services such as forensic interviews, medical evaluations, and advocacy support. They are designed to create a child-friendly environment where young individuals can share their experiences safely while families gain access to critical resources, including mental health services.
Beyond her clinical and academic work, Dr. Ham extends her impact through storytelling. As the author of the Medical Adventures with Dr. Andrea series, she transforms complex medical experiences into accessible, reassuring narratives for children. Interestingly, her journey into writing began unexpectedly, sparked by a moment of inspiration during a routine errand. What started as a simple idea has grown into a meaningful extension of her mission to help children feel informed and less fearful about their health.
Reading, she notes, is more than just a developmental tool. It is a powerful way to strengthen the bond between children and caregivers. Through shared stories, children build language skills, explore their imagination, and find comfort. Reading together can also reduce anxiety and open the door to important conversations in a natural, approachable way.
Even with such a demanding career, Dr. Ham values moments of rest and joy. Whether she is watching movies, catching up on episodes of Real Housewives, reading, or playing the piano, she understands the importance of balance. That same balance is something she hopes families can cultivate, creating homes where children feel both protected and nurtured.
Child Abuse Prevention Month is more than a campaign. It is a reminder that safeguarding children is a shared responsibility. With informed communities, attentive caregivers, and dedicated advocates like Dr. Ham, there is hope for a future where every child can grow up in a safe and supportive environment.
Photo Credit: Ariel Perry
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