Child Abuse Awareness and Prevention

April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month

Join the City of Falls Church for several events in recognition of National Child Abuse Prevention Month. 

Pinwheel Garden Planting


Monday, March 25 at 7:00 p.m.
Cherry Hill Park (312 Park Ave. entrance across from the Library)

The Pinwheel Garden will move to a different location in the City each week throughout the month of April. 

City Council Proclamation

 
Monday, March 25 at 7:30 p.m.
Community Center (312 Park Ave.)

Wear Blue Day
Friday, April 5
Show support for preventing child abuse and neglect by wearing blue on April 5. 

About Child Abuse and Neglect

Child abuse and neglect is a serious problem affecting every segment of any community, and finding solutions requires input and action from everyone in our community. Child abuse can have long-term psychological, emotional, and physical effects that can have lifelong consequences for victims of abuse.

Protective factors such as parental resilience, social connections, knowledge of parenting and child development, support in times of need and social-emotional competence of children are conditions that reduce or eliminate risk and promote the social, emotional, and developmental well-being of children. All citizens should become involved in supporting families in raising their children in a safe, nurturing environment.
Learn more about Preventing Child Abuse (information sheet) 

Child Protective Services


The City of Falls Church contracts with Fairfax County for Child Protective Services (CPS). If you are concerned about a child's well-being, suspect child abuse or neglect, want to report or discuss a possible abuse or neglect situation, or want advice, counseling or other resources, contact:  (your call is confidential)

Fairfax County's Child Protective Services
703-324-7400, TTY 703-222-9452
or
City of Falls Church Police
703-248-5053

Resources

  • Fairfax County Children and Families  -  Here you will find a wide range of information on keeping children safe, on supporting families, on parenting and more!
  • Resources on Parenting and Child Supervision -  Find help in becoming a better parent and improving family interactions through parenting programs and services in Fairfax County and Northern Virginia.
  • U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Children's Bureau - The Children's Bureau supports programs, research, and monitoring systems that prevent child abuse and neglect while ensuring that children who are victims receive treatment and care.
  • 2019 Prevention Resource Guide:The guide provides information, strategies, and resources to help communities support and strengthen families and promote the well-being of children and youth. The guide is published by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Children's Bureau.