the problem.

The drive follows abuse allegations at a day nursery where more than a dozen children have been removed.

And yesterday campaign organiser Mrs. Eileen Brown described recent statistics on abuse as "alarming''.

Last year there were just under 20 cases of abuse -- both emotional and physical.

But, it is feared, many cases go unreported. And emotional abuse is notoriously hard to prove.

Mother-of-five Mrs. Brown is the chairwoman of PARENTS -- Parent Awareness Resources for Educating, Nurturing, Training Skills.

The group, whose motto is "Parents, let the children know we care'', is set to launch its second blue ribbon community campaign.

It has labelled April "child abuse prevention month'', and urged people throughout Bermuda to wear the ribbons to show their support for the campaign.

The ribbons will be available at various places, including Hamilton library.

Information packages promoting the campaign have also been given to businesses. In them, parents receive tips on improving their relationship with their children.

They are told how to calm down when they feel like lashing out at their child.

"Take a deep breath. And another. Then remember you are the adult,'' an information leaflet states.

A calendar checklist is also enclosed, with daily suggestions on showing parental care for a child.

Ideas include reading, cooking, playing and walking with a child, and taking him to the library and aquarium. Parents are also urged to turn April 21 into "hug day''.

One of the campaign's highlights is a family fun day at Victoria Park, Hamilton, on April 18.

It will feature, among other attractions, games, food, and balloons, and everything will be free.

John Barritt & Co is helping PARENTS with the event, which will be held between 10 a.m. and 4.30 p.m.

Yesterday Mrs. Brown appealed for support for the campaign.

She said the drive gained added importance following recent concern over alleged child abuse.

Last week Government announced it would pay for counselling for children removed from Nambour Day Nursery in Paget.

Mrs. Brown said she found statistics on abuse alarming, particularly as many cases probably went unreported.

In 1991 55 percent of 34 cases were proven; and in 1992 45 percent of 40 cases were proven.