Child Abuse Prevention Month Published April 11, 2016 By Laurel Grams Minot Air Force Base Family Advocacy MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. -- Release Date: April 11, 2016 Phone: 723-5096 Contact: Laurel Grams, FAOM Family Advocacy Program Email: laurel.grams-remington.1@us.af.mil We All Can Play a Part in Preventing Child Maltreatment and Promoting Well-Being April Is National Child Abuse Prevention Month MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. - April 11, 2016 - Join us for the 5K/10K Color Run April 26th at 4 p.m. in support of Child Abuse Awareness and Prevention Month, Alcohol Awareness Month, and Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month. April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month. This month, and throughout the year, the Family Advocacy Program encourages all individuals and organizations to play a role in making Minot Air Force Base a better place for children and families. By ensuring that parents have the knowledge, skills and resources they need to care for their children, we can help promote children's social and emotional well-being and prevent child maltreatment within families and communities. Research shows that when parents possess protective factors (skills and/or support to help individuals deal with stressful events) the risk for neglect and abuse diminish and optimal outcomes for children, youth, and families are promoted. The protective factors are: · Strong connections with children · Good parenting skills · Good coping skills to help deal with the stress of parenting · Good supportive relationships with family, friends or other supports in the community · Knowledge of where to find resources (e.g. basic necessities, medical care, etc.) · Ability to express and communicate emotions effectively · Build and maintain healthy friendships and other relationships "April is a time to celebrate the important role that communities play in protecting children," said Laurel Grams, 5th Medical Operations Squadron family advocacy outreach manager. "Everyone's participation is critical. Focusing on ways to build and promote the protective factors, in every interaction with children and families, is the best thing our community can do to prevent child maltreatment and promote optimal child development." For more information about child abuse prevention programs and activities during the month of April, and throughout the year, contact the Family Advocacy Program at 701-723-5096.