Today, we spoke with Dr. Barbara Knox, MD, a leading child abuse pediatrician and Professor of Pediatrics at the University of Florida. She spends her life helping children who are hurt or abused. Dr. Knox believes that keeping children safe is everyone’s duty: not just doctors, teachers, or social workers.
In this interview, Barbara Knox MD, explains why teamwork is important to protect children, how people can spot signs of abuse, and what they should do if they are worried about a child’s safety. Her words remind us that we all have a role in keeping children safe, healthy, and happy.
Interviewer: Dr. Barbara Knox, thank you for speaking with us today. You often say “Child safety is everyone’s duty.” What do you mean by that?
Barbara Knox MD: Thank you for having me. When I say child safety is everyone’s duty, I mean that keeping children safe is not only the job of doctors, social workers, or teachers. Every person in the community has a role to play. Children rely on adults to protect them because they cannot always speak up for themselves. If we all pay attention and care, we can prevent many children from being hurt.
Interviewer: What can ordinary people do to keep children safe?
Barbara Knox MD: There are many simple things people can do. First, always watch for signs of abuse or neglect. For example, if you see a child with many unexplained bruises, burns, or injuries, or if the child seems very fearful, withdrawn, or hungry all the time, these could be signs of abuse. If you notice something that worries you, report it to child protection services. You do not need proof to report; you just need to be concerned. It is better to report and be wrong than to ignore and allow harm to continue.
Interviewer: Some people feel worried about reporting. They think it might cause trouble for the family or that they might be wrong. What would you say to them?
Barbara Knox MD: I understand that fear. But remember, reporting is not accusing. When you report, professionals will look into the situation and decide what is best for the child. If there is no abuse, the family will not be harmed. But if there is abuse, your report could save a child’s life. Always think of the child first. Their safety is more important than our fears of being wrong.
Interviewer: How do you work with other professionals to keep children safe?
Barbara Knox MD: Teamwork is very important in child protection. As a child abuse pediatrician, I work with nurses, social workers, mental health experts, teachers, and law enforcement. Each person brings different skills and knowledge. For example, I examine the child for medical signs of abuse, while social workers look at the child’s home and family situation, and law enforcement investigates if a crime was committed. Together, we make sure the child is safe and gets the help they need.
Interviewer: Why do you think some cases of child abuse remain hidden for so long?
Barbara Knox MD: Sadly, many children are too scared to speak up. Abusers often threaten them to stay quiet. Also, some injuries are hidden under clothes, or the child is kept away from people who might notice. Sometimes, people see signs but do not want to get involved. This is why I say child safety is everyone’s duty. We must pay attention to children around us and never ignore signs that something is wrong.
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Interviewer: What is the role of teachers in keeping children safe?
Barbara Knox MD: Teachers spend many hours with children. They often notice changes in behaviour, mood, or physical injuries. If a child suddenly becomes withdrawn, fearful, aggressive, or has injuries without clear explanation, teachers should report it. They should also create an environment where children feel safe to speak up about problems at home or elsewhere.
Interviewer: How can parents help protect their own children from abuse by others?
Barbara Knox MD: Parents should always know who their children are with and what activities they are doing. Teach children about safe and unsafe touch in simple words. Let them know they can always tell you if someone makes them feel uncomfortable or hurts them, and that you will believe and protect them. Build a relationship where children feel safe sharing anything with you.
Interviewer: What message would you give to communities about child safety?
Barbara Knox MD: My message is clear: child safety is everyone’s duty. If you are a neighbour, friend, relative, teacher, or coach, always watch for signs of abuse or neglect. Talk to children, listen to them, and support them. Report your concerns if you see signs of harm. Communities can also organise talks and programs to raise awareness about child protection. When everyone cares, we build safer places for children to grow.
Interviewer: As a doctor, how do you cope with the emotional stress of seeing so many abused children?
Barbara Knox MD: It is very hard. Seeing children hurt breaks my heart. But I remind myself that my job is to help them, protect them, and give them hope for a better future. I talk to my colleagues when I feel overwhelmed, and I focus on the positive: that my work saves lives and brings healing to children who suffer.
Interviewer: Finally, what would you like every person to remember today?
Barbara Knox MD: Please remember that every child deserves to feel safe, loved, and cared for. If you see a child in pain or danger, do not stay silent. Your small actions can change their lives forever. Child safety is not just a parent’s or doctor’s job; it is everyone’s duty.
Interviewer: Thank you, Dr. Barbara Knox, for your powerful words and for the incredible work you do every day.
Barbara Knox MD: Thank you for giving me a chance to speak about this important topic. Together, we can keep children safe.