April is Child Abuse Awareness Month

March 28, 2025
ABUSE

Protecting Our Children Starts with Us

Every child deserves to grow up in a safe, loving environment, yet thousands face abuse and neglect every year. April is Child Abuse Awareness Month—a time to shine a light on this critical issue and take action to protect our children.

Know the Signs

Child abuse can take many forms, including physical, emotional, and sexual abuse, as well as neglect. Some warning signs include:
🔹 Unexplained injuries or bruises
🔹 Extreme behavior changes (withdrawal, aggression, fearfulness)
🔹 Poor hygiene, frequent hunger, or lack of supervision
🔹 Inappropriate sexual knowledge for their age
🔹 Fear of going home or being around specific individuals

Texas Child Abuse Reporting

In Texas, anyone who suspects child abuse is legally required to report it. Failure to report can result in legal consequences. If you suspect abuse, call the Texas Abuse Hotline at 1-800-252-5400 or report online at txabusehotline.org. If a child is in immediate danger, call 911.

How You Can Help

✅ Be vigilant. Pay attention to the children around you.
✅ Speak up. If something seems off, report it—better safe than sorry.
✅ Support families. Many cases stem from stress, lack of resources, or parental struggles. Offer help where you can.
✅ Educate others. Share awareness materials and encourage open conversations about child safety.

Together, we can be the voice for children who cannot speak for themselves. Let’s commit to protecting and nurturing the next generation.

Child Abuse Resources