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DCYF Observes Child Abuse Prevention Month in Washington State
The Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) is joining other states and organizations across the nation for Child Abuse Prevention Month to acknowledge the powerful work that parents, primary caregivers, and community members do every day to help children succeed.
DCYF is participating in the month-long, nationwide awareness and impact campaign: “Growing a Better Tomorrow for All Children, Together.” In support of these efforts, Gov. Jay Inslee proclaimed April as Child Abuse Prevention Month in Washington State.
“Washington families have faced immeasurable stressors and hardships this past year, and we honor each and every one of you for your strength, resilience, and perseverance,” Inslee said. “Parents and caregivers across the state are supporting their children and families in exceptional ways through this pandemic. Communities stepped up and stood together to support one another.”
To raise awareness about child abuse and neglect prevention, DCYF’s Strengthening Families Washington team is participating in the Pinwheels for Prevention Campaign – distributing nearly 15,000 pinwheels across the state to symbolize the joy of childhood and that every child deserves a happy, healthy upbringing.
Our goal as an agency is to get upstream of child abuse rather than just responding to it. There are huge barriers between marginalized families and the services they need, and our prevention work is aimed at removing those barriers.
Resources to Support Families and Prevent Child Abuse
Thank you for doing your part to support families, care for children and youth, and keep our communities safe.
We’ve compiled a list of publications that can help you recognize the signs of child abuse. The presence of a single sign does not prove child abuse is happening in a family. However, when signs appear repeatedly or in combination, you should take a closer look at the situation and consider the possibility of child abuse.
- Recognizing Child Abuse and Neglect Guide.
- Signs of Child Abuse and Neglect.
- 9 Signs of Child Abuse to Recognize During a Video Call.
- How to Report Child Abuse or Neglect.
DCYF and OSPI Celebrate 45th Anniversary of IDEA
The Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) and DCYF held a second virtual event on March 22, 2021, to celebrate the 45th Anniversary of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Together, we celebrated Washington State’s journey over the last 45 years of providing education, resources, supports, and services to infants, toddlers, children, and youth with disabilities and their families.
- Watch the recording of the 45th anniversary celebration.
- Read the IDEA Day Proclamation by Gov. Inslee.
- Learn more about the virtual 45th IDEA Celebration.
Learn more about the history of IDEA from the U.S. Department of Education.