Child Abuse Prevention Month: Supporting Strong Families And Communities

April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month which highlights the importance of working together to prevent child maltreatment by creating safe communities and connecting parents with resources to help families thrive. The protection and well-being of children, families, and communities is a top priority.Every year, Jefferson County Commissioners allow CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) to put up signs as well as blue and silver pinwheels as part of the awareness campaign.All Nebraskans share the responsibility to ensure each child feels supported, has positive experiences, and ensures families have access to the resources they need when they need them. Child abuse and neglect can be reduced by making sure families have the knowledge, resources, skills, and support to provide a healthy, safe, and nurturing environment for all children in Nebraska.“When we invest in children and families, we are investing in our communities and our future," said Dr. Alyssa Bish, Director of the Division of Children and Family Services. “All children, parents, and families deserve access to the support and resources they need, when they need it, in their own communities, and without stigma."In 2008, Prevent Child Abuse America started using blue pinwheels to signify a vision where all children can grow up in supportive families and communities. Blue pinwheels are a reminder of the role we all play in children's lives and that we all need a circle of support.Small actions can make a big difference in the life of a child or parent. Anyone can help families and communities thrive by recognizing and incorporating some of these action items:Find ways to support your local community collaborative and encourage others to do the same.Get involved in neighborhood activities and reach out to your neighbors to help build a sense of community.Spread the word to people who may be feeling overwhelmed that they can reach out to their local collaborative to get connected to resources and support to meet their goals.Encourage sharing stories about how collaboratives take small but impactful steps to support children and families in their communities.Follow DHHS on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram and share our posts—and encourage your friends and family to do the same. Use the hashtags #BringUpNebraska and #CAPMonth to let us know you're committed to helping children, families, and entire communities to thrive.To help spread awareness for Child Abuse Prevention Month, community collaboratives, stakeholders, and partners will be organizing community events and sharing resources about how to support families and children in Nebraska.

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