04/20/2026
April is Child Abuse Prevention Month.💙 Thank you to our social workers, families, and community partners for all they do to protect children every day.
We have CPS on site at Departure Regional Center. If you have any concerns about a child in your life, please call the report hotline at (919) 212-7990 [English] or (919) 212-7963 [Spanish].
As we continue our Child Abuse Prevention Month highlights, this Monday we are discussing how to take action to prevent abuse. One of the most powerful ways we can protect children is by having open, age-appropriate conversations early and often.
Here are a few simple ways to start:
• Teach children about their bodies. Help them understand body autonomy and use correct names for body parts.
• Remind them it’s okay to say “no," even to adults, if something makes them uncomfortable.
• Explain the difference between secrets and surprises. Surprises are temporary and happy. Secrets that make them feel uneasy should always be shared.
• Reassure them they won’t get in trouble. No matter what they need to tell you, they are safe to speak up.
• Make time for their questions. Listen without judgment and keep the conversation going as they grow.
Prevention starts with trust, communication, and empowerment. Together, we can create a safer world for every child! For more resources, visit https://safechildnc.org/find-a-program/