NATIONAL CHILD ABUSE PREVENTION MONTH 2022

National Child Abuse Prevention Month recognizes the importance of creating safe, healthy environments for children. Children raised in safe, stable, and supportive environments are more likely to prosper academically and financially, and avoid future health and social problems that can result from toxic stress. In cases of child maltreatment, identifying what is happening, supporting the child and their family in their healing process, and keeping the offenders from hurting more children – known as secondary prevention – can help minimize negative outcomes. Every adult can help in many ways, from supporting parents who are facing challenges, to being a trusted “go-to” person for a child, to knowing the red flags for abuse and educating others, and more. This April, take some time to learn about ways to help create a safer, happier, brighter future for children.

Shine Hope Campaign – Core Message

Child abuse is incredibly common, and can lead to lifelong struggles with health, opportunity, and wellbeing. Fortunately, it is also preventable – and, when abuse does occur, evidence-based treatment and support can prevent lasting problems.  Each one of us can do something. Together, we can #ShineHope for a bright future where children are safe, and where child abuse victims and adult survivors can heal and go on to lead happy, fulfilled, and productive lives.

Campaign Components

  • How do you #ShineHope?

Tell the world how you or your organization helps create a brighter future for child abuse victims. On the sign (pictured below and included in the full toolkit), you can fill in your organization’s name, and how you shine hope. Take a photo with your sign and post on social media with #ShineHope.

  • Wear Blue Day

On April 11th, when state buildings are lit up blue, we ask all supporters of child abuse victims to wear blue! This is also a good day to use your #ShineHope sign – write in your organization’s name and message, and take a photo with your team wearing blue and holding the sign. You can also purchase specially designed Shine Hope t-shirts and hoodies, with profits going to New Jersey Children’s Alliance.

https://www.customink.com/fundraising/shinehope

 

  • Coloring Page Display

Have children show support by coloring in a Shine Hope coloring page! Hang the creations in a special place, and of course, take a picture and share! Right-click to download the page. 

Social Media

Below you will find sample social media messages designed to educate the community and rally support for the cause. Please also follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter @njcainc and share our posts, which will include graphics and community resources. All of these graphics and more are available for download at

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As adults, we are all responsible for protecting children from abuse. Learn the signs, and if you suspect abuse, make a report. #ChildAbusePreventionMonth #ShineHope

 

Stress and isolation are child-abuse risk factors. Check on the parents you know and offer help and support if they need it. #ChildAbusePreventionMonth #ShineHope

 

Sexual exploration and play are a natural part of child development. Some childhood sexual behaviors, however, can pose a risk to the safety and well-being of a child and other children in their world. Learn how to recognize and react to these problematic behaviors at https://bit.ly/3IGM6go.  #ChildAbusePreventionMonth #ShineHope

 

Children can heal from abuse; Child Advocacy Centers can help by working as a team to take give children and families hope, healing and justice. Find out more about New Jersey’s CACs at https://bit.ly/3pskc00. #ChildAbusePreventionMonth #ShineHope

 

When a child discloses to you that they have been abused, how you react and what you do next is important. Listen, validate, be supportive, and get help. #ChildAbusePreventionMonth #ShineHope

 

Every parent experiences tough times. If your family or a family you know could use a helping hand, you can find help and resources through the Department of Children and Families. https://www.nj.gov/dcf/families/

 

Total lifetime economic burden of child abuse and neglect in the United States is at least $124 billion annually. Preventing abuse saves money and creates a healthier society. #ChildAbusePreventionMonth #ShineHope

 

Protective factors such as resilience, support, social connections, and parenting/relationship skills help reduce the risk elements associated with child abuse and neglect. #ChildAbusePreventionMonth #ShineHope

 

Simple actions can make a big difference. Do something for children by volunteering at school, coaching, leading a troop or club, or helping out a struggling family. How will you #ShineHope?

 

High quality mental health treatment can make all the difference in the life of someone who experienced child abuse. When you report child abuse, children can access the right treatment and start to heal. #ChildAbusePreventionMonth #ShineHope

Download the complete toolkit here.