by Rebecca Quimby
April 19, 2010

In honor of National Child Abuse Prevention Month, baby gooroo would like to share with our readers the importance of increasing public awareness of child abuse and neglect and encourage individuals and communities to identify strategies for supporting children and families.

This month, The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Administration for Children and Families announced that 2008 saw the lowest child victimization rate in five years. Still, recent data show an estimated 772,000 children were victims of child abuse and neglect. An estimated one-third of those children were under the age of four. More than three million reports of suspected child abuse and neglect were filed in 2008, involving six million children nationwide.

Since 1974 when legislation was first passed to ensure the safety and welfare of our children, national child abuse prevention organizations have been working tirelessly to engage the public, raise awareness, and strengthen and support families. Last month, President Obama signed the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act authorizing the expansion of high-quality, voluntary, home visitation services designed to prevent child abuse and neglect.

Recognition, prevention, and protection are every parent’s responsibility. Stay informed. Share these tips and resources with friends and family. Get involved by contacting a chapter in your state.