This month as we recognize National Child Abuse Prevention Month and the Blue Bow Campaign, we’re highlighting a handful of sponsors and committee members to learn what the month means to them and why it’s so crucial.
We recently heard from Lesley Schwartz, LCSW – Maternal, Niño, and Early Childhood Home Visiting (MIECHV) Project Director at the Illinois Governor’s Office of Early Childhood Development for her thoughts on this very important month:
¿Por qué es tan importante el Mes de la Prevención del Abuso Infantil?? ¿Por qué es tan significativo para ti??
Child Abuse Prevention month is important because it brings the issue of child abuse and more importantly how to prevent it to the public. Child Abuse Prevention month is important to me because as a former home visitor and current administrator of home visiting programs, I have had the opportunity to see first-hand the impact that prevention can play in changing the life trajectory of children and families. Home visiting is a parent support program with a strong evidence base for promoting positive outcomes for families. It is recognized as a leading strategy for the prevention of child abuse.
¿Cuál es su enfoque para prevenir el abuso infantil?? ¿Cómo estás ayudando a prevenirlo??
As the State Administrator for The Maternal Infant and Early Childhood Program (MIECHV), my approach to preventing child abuse is to do my best to support Home Visiting Professionals who are truly on the front lines of preventing abuse to the very youngest infant and toddlers in our state. If I can make decisions that makes their jobs easier and gives them the attention, credit resources they deserve then I believe I am doing my part. Home visiting is rooted in prevention, working with families before babies are born is at the pinnacle of prevention. Home Visitors support families to bring their new babies into loving homes and with secure attachments setting the stage for healthy lives free of abuse and neglect.
¿Qué tendencias/cambios ha visto con respecto al abuso infantil a lo largo de los años?? ¿Qué marca la diferencia al mover la aguja??
A positive trend that I have seen regarding child abuse over the years is the increased attention to the effectiveness of home visiting as in intervention for reducing child abuse and neglect. Home visiting has seen increased interest both nationally with the MIECHV grant and in the state with Governor Pritzker’s commitment to increase home visiting slots over the next five years. It is the expertise of home visiting professionals and their relationships with families that is making the difference in moving the needle. Home visiting program have been shown to support healthy child development, preparación escolar, family self-sufficiency and positive parenting practices. All of this contributes to the reduction of abuse and neglect.
¿Qué quiere que la gente sepa sobre la prevención del abuso infantil??
Child abuse is a complicated issue expounded by factors such as poverty, addictions, and mental health issues but prevention programs like home visiting have proven time and time again that they work in stopping the cycle of abuse.
¿Cómo pueden otros ayudar a marcar la diferencia??
Support local organizations that provide support to families in your community.
¿Qué haces para reconocer el mes?? ¿Qué significa el lazo azul para ti??
I have a blue bow pin that I get out every year and wear throughout the month. As a former Children’s Home & Aid employee, Blue Bow and the events that occur throughout the month bring back memories and feelings of community, esperanza, and togetherness.