April marks Child Abuse Prevention Month; resources available for families

Photo: Prevent Child Abuse Utah

HEBER CITY, Utah – April is Child Abuse Prevention Month, a time to raise awareness about protecting children from abuse and providing families with resources to prevent it. According to Prevent Child Abuse Utah, 1 in 7 children in Utah experience sexual abuse before the age of 18, and in 90% of cases, the child knows their abuser.

The Wasatch Children’s Justice Center offers child abuse reporting and prevention resources to help families and communities take action. One of the key tools available is a FREE Family Safety Plan, which can be downloaded from Prevent Child Abuse Utah.

The WC Justice Center emphasizes that parents and guardians play a crucial role in protecting their children. By creating and sharing a Family Safety Plan, families can set clear boundaries, communicate expectations, and ensure that children feel supported and safe. Sharing this plan with caregivers, teachers, and others who regularly interact with children reinforces a proactive approach to child protection.