April is Child Abuse Prevention Month

(WAND) - April is Child Abuse Prevention Month.

The Illinois Department of Children and Family Services is working with Prevent Child Abuse Illinois, Hospital Sisters Health System, the Poshard Foundation for Abused Children, elected officials, and child welfare stakeholders to share child abuse and neglect prevention awareness messages.

The theme this year is Pinwheels of Possibility.

Illinois DCFS Director Heidi E. Meuller said, "Every young person deserves to grow up in a safe and loving home, and this year's theme speaks to the heart of our department's mission: to promote the safety and well-being of children, youth and families; provide family-centered care; and connect families to the resources they need. When children and families are surrounded by a caring community, their potential becomes truly limitless. By working together, we are creating a future where every child in Illinois can thrive and every family feels supported."

Prevent Child Abuse Illinois Executive Director Tarra Winters said, "This year's theme, 'Pinwheels of Possibility,' reminds us that when we support families early and invest in prevention, we strengthen parents, reduce stress and create the conditions for children to thrive. Every child is born full of promise, and families are the experts on what their children need. When we listen to families and invest in prevention, we open the door to safer, healthier futures for children and communities."

Illinois DCFS will host events around the state for Child Abuse Prevention Month. People are also encouraged to wear blue on April 10 and post pictures on social media, tagging Illinois DCFS in their posts and using the hashtags #GreatChildhoods and #GoBlueIllinois.

In Springfield, pinwheels will be planted in the lawn at HSHS St. John's Hospital on Thursday, April 2 at 9:30 a.m.

In Decatur, pinwheels were placed at the courthouse March 30. The public is invited to kick off the start of Child Abuse Prevention Month at noon on April 2 at the courthouse. From April 13 through April 17, child abuse prevention messages will be written in chalk on sidewalks in Decatur. Sunday, April 26, is Blue Sunday Day of Prayer for abused and neglected children.