Child Abuse Prevention Month is recognized each April as a way to raise public awareness about child abuse and ultimately support families and protect children.  The CDC highlights that, “approximately 772,000 children are confirmed by Child Protective Services each year as being abused or neglected. These confirmed cases, however, represent only a fraction of the true magnitude of the problem.”  While the majority of these families will receive services to promote healthy family functioning and ensure the children can remain safely st home, over 250,000 children will enter foster care each year.  It is important for policymakers and practitioners to understand how to best serve families in need to promote healthy families and avoid placing children in foster care when possible.

This year, the theme of Child Abuse Prevention Month is “Strengthening Families and Communities.”  Recognizing the importance of identifying risk factors and building upon the strengths that already exist in the family and community, the 2011  Child Abuse Prevention Resource Guide serves as a tool for practitioners working with families.

In preparation for this month, the Child Welfare Information Gateway updated its site on preventing child abuse, where information on positive parenting, community resources, and preventative programs is available.  One organization, Parents Anonymous, announced the launch of a national hotline and website meant to provide emotional support and resources to parents.  Yesterday, the White House showed support by issuing a Presidential Proclamation in support of Child Abuse Prevention Month.

How will you raise awareness about child abuse prevention this month?

Our Nation’s Future Begins At Home.