Protecting Children Starts with Prevention: A Conversation with Dr. Kendra K. Ham
[…] The post Protecting Children Starts with Prevention: A Conversation with Dr. Kendra K. Ham first appeared on SHEEN Magazine.
Black News 
Dr. Ham shared her insight on inspiration, community safety, child advocacy, and the importance of literacy in helping children feel seen, heard, and supported.
April is Child Abuse Prevention Month, a time dedicated not only to raising awareness about the prevalence of child abuse but, more importantly, to focusing on prevention, education, and early intervention. As a double board-certified pediatrician in General Pediatrics and Child Abuse Pediatrics, Dr. Kendra K. Ham brings both clinical expertise and heartfelt commitment to child protection. A graduate of the College of Charleston, the Medical University of South Carolina, and the Medical College of Georgia, Dr. Ham serves on a Children’s Child Protection Team that includes four child advocacy centers and an inpatient consultation team. She is also an Associate Professor at Wake Forest University School of Medicine, where she teaches medical students, residents, and other learners. In addition to her medical work, Dr. Ham is a children’s book author whose Medical Adventures with Dr. Andrea series helps families and children navigate health topics with confidence and care.
As a woman in medicine and a leader in child protection, who are some women who inspired your journey?
Dr. Kendra: One of the pediatricians and leaders in medicine who truly inspired me was Dr. Janice Key. I worked with her as a medical student, and her informal mentorship during my rotation with her team really lit a fire in me and helped boost my confidence in medicine. I also deeply appreciate Dr. Mia Amaya. Because of her, I learned what it meant to be a child abuse pediatrician and decided to pursue that specialty as my full-time career.
Your work focuses on protecting children. What are some ways communities can help keep kids safe and supported?
Dr. Kendra: Awareness is key. Communities can work together to educate children and caregivers about the dangers that exist, along with ways to prevent those risks. One of the most important ways to protect a child is to ensure they have appropriate childcare. As children become verbal, it is also important to talk to them about private parts and body boundaries. We must empower children to speak up if something has happened to their bodies that should not have happened.
For parents reading today, what are some signs that a child may need extra support or advocacy?
Dr. Kendra: Children who are showing sudden major behavioral changes, such as acting out or becoming more withdrawn, may need extra support or advocacy. The same is true for children who may have been exposed to something they should not have been exposed to. These changes can be important signals that a child needs additional attention, care, or protection.
What does a child advocacy center do, and how does it help families during difficult times?
Dr. Kendra: Child advocacy centers provide specialized care for children who are suspected of being abused or neglected. This includes advocacy, child-friendly forensic interviews, and medical evaluations that help inform ongoing investigations as part of a multidisciplinary response. Depending on the situation, families may also be connected to mental health services and other supportive resources.
You’re also a children’s book author. What inspired you to start writing stories for kids?
Dr. Kendra: I never initially thought about becoming a children’s book author until the end of my pediatric residency. While getting my car’s oil changed, I suddenly had ideas for several books that would help children learn about different illnesses and feel less afraid of going to the doctor. That moment sparked what became my Medical Adventures with Dr. Andrea series.
How can readers connect online?
Connect online: https://www.instagram.com/drkendraham?igsh=MTJkajdiZzJ0MnhsNg==
Photo Credits: Ariel Perry
The post Protecting Children Starts with Prevention: A Conversation with Dr. Kendra K. Ham first appeared on SHEEN Magazine.
