Support Over Silence
Helping Bystanders Become Supporters, Not Spectators
We’ve all been there: a parent struggling in a grocery store, a child melting down in a waiting room, a tense moment in public that makes everyone uncomfortable. Support Over Silence transforms those moments into opportunities for empathy.
This interactive, evidence-based training empowers adults to respond to stressful situations with compassion, not judgment—and to be a source of support instead of silence.
What Is Support Over Silence?
Support Over Silence is designed to help everyday people—neighbors, workers, bystanders—feel confident stepping up with kindness and empathy when they see a child or caregiver in distress in a public space.
This 2–2.5 hour training helps participants:
- Recognize common signs of caregiver stress or child distress
- Respond in a calm, supportive, nonjudgmental way
- Understand what not to do or say
- Learn how small gestures can make a big difference
- Feel more empowered and less helpless when witnessing tough moments
What Makes It Different?
Instead of teaching people to intervene like a professional, Support Over Silence teaches them how to be a human being—one who leads with empathy and avoids escalation.
Through role-playing, real-world scenarios, and group discussion, participants gain the skills and confidence to act wisely and compassionately when it matters most.
Why It Matters
Parenting in public is hard. And for many families, public judgment only adds to the pressure. Support Over Silence helps build a culture of support, not shame.
By creating more understanding and connection in our communities, we:
- Reduce the risk of harm caused by caregiver stress
- Normalize offering help instead of casting blame
- Reinforce the idea that we’re all responsible for protecting and supporting kids
Who Should Attend?
This training is ideal for:
- Community members who want to be helpful but aren’t sure how
- Retail, library, and customer service staff
- Park, recreation, and transportation employees
- School, daycare, and after-school program staff
- Church groups, volunteers, and outreach teams
Compassion is contagious. Start the ripple effect.
To schedule a Support Over Silence training, contact ECHO at info@echo-ky.org or call (502) 634-6063.