April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month!

ATLANTA (April 1, 2014) – The Governor’s Office for Children and Families promotes efforts to strengthen Georgia families and communities by providing information and awareness of child abuse prevention.  Georgia’s children are our most important asset. Scientists who study the brain tell us that children who have nurturing relationships in safe, stable environments build healthy brain architecture and create a foundation for future success and well-being. Children who are abused or neglected, living in homes with domestic violence or substance abuse or living in chronic poverty, experience unhealthy levels of stress that are toxic to the brain and impair its growth. These children are more likely toexperience life-long problems in learning, behavior, and both physical and mental health.

Prevention of child abuse has a positive impact on children, families, communities, and society as a whole.  April, National Child Abuse Prevention Month, is a time to recognize that we each can play a part in promoting the social and emotional well-being of children and families in communities.   During April, the Governor’s Office for Children and Families encourages all Georgians to work together to prevent child abuse and neglect.  One of the most effective ways that each of us can prevent child abuse is by supporting local programs that partner with parents to impart the knowledge, skills, resources, and social support they need to provide safe, healthy, nurturing environments.  The Governor’s Office for Children and Families invites you to follow us on Facebook and twitter for more information about healthy parenting and simple ways to prevent child abuse and neglect in your community.  In addition, learn how you can support families and prevent child abuse during the month of April and throughout the year.  Visit www.preventchildabuse.org for resources and strategies on engaging communities and supporting families or the 2014 National Child Abuse Prevention Month website atwww.childwelfare.gov/preventing/preventionmonth. Each community in Georgia plays an important role in helping families find the strength they need to raise educated, healthy, safe and growing children.