Our country has been rocked this week by tragic news from California. The abuse and neglect of the 13 Turpin children is shocking and incomprehensible. The treatment of these children is clearly criminal in nature, and the parents should be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.
Cases like the California case are horrific and unusual. Naturally, our thoughts turn to what we can do to nurture and protect children from horrible acts of neglect and abuse. Apparently, there were concerns and suspicions about the treatment of the Turpin children among neighbors, but no one took any action. This, too, is hard to understand.
Mistreatment of children is more than our hearts can bear. Though connections continue to be made in the media, cases like these are not about homeschooling, but about unfathomable crimes perpetrated on children. That is where the attention should be squarely focused.
HOME will continue to be vigilant in our efforts to protect homeschool freedom. But protecting children from harm is our first priority. Do not turn a blind eye to crime. Children cannot protect themselves from abuse. If you believe a child is in danger due to abuse, call the Maine Child Abuse Hotline. If you believe a child is at risk of imminent harm, call 911.
Please keep the precious children and young adults of the Turpin family in your prayers. "He heals the brokenhearted, and binds up their wounds." Psalm 147:3
"There is no known predisposition for abuse among those who choose to home educate their children."
Addressing Child Abuse - HSLDA
What is child abuse? What do you do if you suspect child abuse?
National Home Education Research Institute
Research facts on homeschooling
Child Protection - HOME