R 192046Z FEB 20
MARADMIN 090/20
MSGID/GENADMIN/CMC/CMC WASHINGTON DC MRA MF//
SUBJ/NATIONAL CHILD ABUSE PREVENTION MONTH AND MONTH OF THE MILITARY CHILD//
POC/M. THOMPSON/CIV/UNIT: MFCP-2/-/TEL: 703-784-9633//
GENTEXT/REMARKS/1.  The month of April is nationally recognized as Child Abuse Prevention Month (CAPM) and Month of the Military Child.  The aim is to raise awareness of the Family Advocacy Program’s (FAP) and Child and Youth Program’s commitment to keeping children safe through the prevention of abuse and neglect.  The theme for 2020 is “Stand up for Kids” with an emphasis on the power of a safe, caring adult in the life of every child.
2.  The Marine Corps shows support for CAPM and Month of the Military Child by engaging in events and activities during April.  These events raise awareness about child abuse prevention, promote service opportunities, and provide community education.  Leadership support of these events, in word and deed, is critical in making it clear that child abuse and neglect is not tolerated in the Marine Corps.
3.  Stand up for kids.  There is a role for every caring adult in the community to play in supporting the resilience of children.  Recognize your role in keeping kids safe and supporting their resilience in the face of adversity.  Take pride in doing your part and pledge to stand up for kids.
4.  Be informed.  Knowledge of parenting and child development strengthens families.  Build families’ strength by asking questions, gaining knowledge, and enhancing your parenting or caregiving skills.
5.  Be attentive.  Consistent care and proper supervision may prevent child abuse and neglect.  It is the responsibility of all Marines to protect children.  Pay attention—at all times—to keep kids healthy, safe, and protected.
6.  Be supportive.  Reach out to parents and caregivers who are in need of support.  Offer to help, listen, and reassure them that taking time to learn how to be a better parent and provide for their children through local resources is admirable.  Know your local resources and share those resources with parents and caregivers in need.
7.  If you have concerns over a child’s safety, and suspect a child is at risk or has been abused or neglected, you are mandated to report your suspicions immediately to the local FAP.  You may also call Child Protective Services or a healthcare provider.  Resources and services are available.
8.  For more information, contact your local installation FAP, New Parent Support Program, or Community Counseling Program.  Help is also available at the Department of Defense Child Safety Hotline at 1-877-790-1197, Marine Corps DSTRESS Line at 1-877-476-7734, and Military OneSource at WWW.MILITARYONESOURCE.COM or 1-800-342-9647.
9.  This MARADMIN is applicable to the Marine Corps Total Force and will expire one year from the date published.
10.  Release authorized by M. C. Balocki, SES, Director, Marine and Family Programs Division.//