What is National Child Abuse Prevention Month?
Every child deserves to grow up feeling safe, supported, and loved. But for too many children, abuse and neglect remain heartbreaking realities. That’s why each April, organizations and communities across the nation come together to observe National Child Abuse Prevention Month, a time to raise awareness, support families, and work toward preventing abuse before it happens.
Child Abuse Prevention Month was first declared in the United States in 1983 by President Ronald Reagan. Since then, April has served as a national call to action, inviting individuals, families, organizations, and policymakers to focus on building safe, stable, and nurturing environments for all children.
One of the most recognizable symbols of this month is the blue pinwheel, introduced in 2008 by Prevent Child Abuse America. The pinwheel represents hope, health, and the joyful childhood every child deserves.
Prevention starts with us.
Prevention isn’t just about responding to abuse after it happens, it’s about strengthening families and communities so that abuse and neglect never occur in the first place. Research shows that when families have access to resources like parenting support, mental health care, and basic needs assistance, the risk of child abuse significantly decreases.
By increasing public awareness and offering real solutions, we can all play a role in helping children thrive.
Whether you're a parent, teacher, business owner, or community member, there are many ways to get involved this April:
1. Wear Blue
Blue is the official color of Child Abuse Prevention Month. Wear blue on Fridays in April to show your support and help spark conversations about prevention.
2. Display Pinwheels or an NCAP yard sign
Sharing Pinwheels or a NCAP-themed yard sign at your home, school, or workplace is a visual reminder of the importance of childhood and prevention. You can request pinwheels or yard signs through our center or create your own!
3. Attend Trainings and Events
Join Juliette’s House for community trainings and outreach events that teach adults how to be protective, informed, and proactive in the lives of children. We offer free prevention education trainings each month, and our Celebrate the Children fundraising event supports the cause for NCAP month.
4. Follow and Share
Engage with us on social media and share our posts throughout the month. Your voice can help raise awareness and reach families in need of support.
5. Support Our Mission
Your donations allow us to provide forensic interviews, trauma recovery services, prevention education, and more. Consider becoming a monthly donor or supporting one of our programs.
6. Be a Trusted Adult!
Sometimes the most powerful thing you can do is be present. Take time to listen to children in your life, offer encouragement, and be a safe person they can trust.