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Every April, people all over the country take time to focus on something really important: keeping kids safe from child abuse and neglect. This month is a reminder that we all play a part in protecting children. It takes everyone including families, schools, and the community working together to make sure kids are safe and adequately cared for.
Child Abuse Prevention Month started back in 1983 as a way to bring more attention to this issue and highlight ways to prevent it. Before that, there was a Child Abuse Prevention Week in 1982, but leaders realized more time and awareness were needed. Since then, April has become a month-long effort focused on raising awareness, sharing resources, and reminding people that protecting kids is something we all have a part in
During Child Abuse Prevention Month communities focus on outreach to teach people how to keep kids safe and supported. One of the most recognized symbols of CAPM is the Pinwheel, or rather, the Pinwheels for Prevention campaign. This was started in 2008 by Prevent Child Abuse America. The pinwheel was chosen because it represents the happy and healthy childhood and the safe and carefree life every child rightfully deserves. Today, you’ll see pinwheels placed in yards, parks, and around communities as a reminder that we all have a role in preventing child abuse and creating safe spaces for kids to grow and thrive in.
Since 2013, the Children’s Advocacy of the San Luis Valley (SLV CAC) has been serving kids and their non-offending families in our community by empowering them. Ensuring their safety, and supporting them to get the help they need if they have been victimized.
One way we raise awareness during Child Abuse Prevention Month is a poster contest which is usually done in collaboration with local elementary schools. Every year, kids from kindergarten through fifth grade participate. This year the theme is “Keeping Kids Safe in the Digital Space.” We offer a short presentation on digital safety, and then the kids create drawings inspired by what they’ve learned, and based on what they envision the topic to look like for them. It’s a way to get them thinking about how to stay safe online while also letting their creativity shine. We then select a first, second, and third place winner in each grade. The winners are given prizes and their drawings are turned into a campaign poster for Child Abuse Prevention month the following year. Those posters are then placed all around the San Luis Valley so everyone can see the kids’ creativity, learn about the SLV CAC’s services, and learn more about how to keep children safe.
Child Abuse Prevention Month plays an important role in helping kids feel supported and informed. Teaching children how to stay safe at home, at school, and online helps them know what to do if something doesn’t feel right. But it’s not just up to kids. Parents, teachers, and the entire community all have a part to play. When we stay aware and speak up, we can help prevent abuse and create a safer place for every child.
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