The poem is a child pleading with their parents to be gentle, patient, and loving. The child asks the parents not to punish them harshly for spills or mistakes, to slow down so they can keep up, and to listen and show they care without criticism. The child wants the parents to love them for who they are, not what they can do, and to be mindful that as a child they don't always understand as adults do.

1. CHILD
ABUSE
-A Child’s Plea

2. Please, Mom and Dad
My hands are small
I don't mean to spill my milk.

5. Don't slap my hands
When I touch something bright
and pretty
I don't understand.

8. My legs are short
Please slow down
So I can keep up with you.

11. Don't expect the bed I make
Or the picture I draw
To be perfect
Just love me for trying.

14. Please look at me when I talk to
you
It lets me know
You are really listening.

17. My feelings are tender
Don't nag me all day
Let me make mistakes
Without feeling stupid.

20. Remember
I am a child
Not a small adult
Sometimes I don't understand
what you are saying.

23. I love you so much.
Please love me just for being me
Not just for the things I can do.

26. --J. Richardson & J. Richardson
Poster Funded by Health and
Rehabilitative Services, State of
Florida

29. http://nurseRD.blogspot.com
www.authorstream.com/reynel89/Nursing
www.slideshare.net/reynel89/slideshows
THANK YOU!
Have a nice day : )
- RDG