Preventing Child Abuse

Prevent Child Abuse

April is both National Child Abuse Prevention and National Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Boca Raton organizations, as well as many statewide and nationally, are dedicating events and activities to support wiping out child abuse. 

One of April’s key events is Walk in My Shoes, a 1,500 mile, month-long walk across Florida. In its eleventh year and hosted by Lauren’s Kids founder and CEO, former state senator Lauren Book (2016 – 2014), the walk passed through Boca Raton on April 6. During the month-long event, participants walk up to 25 miles each day to raise awareness for the prevention of sexual abuse.

The walk attracts advocates, local leaders and stakeholders, giving them the opportunity to physically show their support for this vital cause. Book states, that “…95 percent of childhood sexual abuse can be prevented with education and awareness.”

Wear Blue 

If you missed this year’s walk, an even easier way to show your support for the cause is to wear blue. This year April 10 was designated as national “wear blue” day, although wearing blue shirts, dresses and ribbons is encouraged throughout the month. 

During April numerous businesses at Mizner Park and Town Center plan to feature blue lighting or offer “blue-themed” specials, especially with cocktails and desserts, to highlight the imperative need to prevent child abuse.

The public is encouraged to take a photo of “blue-themed” features and post it digitally by using the hashtag #WearBlueDay2026. These photos will help bring awareness to the vital need of preventing child abuse.

Pinwheels

The blue pinwheel signifies a “happy, healthy childhood”, and pinwheel gardens are visual reminders that prevention of child abuse is possible. You can find Pinwheel Gardens at the Boca Raton Public Library, Sugar Sand Park and outside the offices of the Palm Beach County Health Department. They serve as constant reminders that child abuse prevention is possible.

You may be inspired to create your own garden in your front yard or at your place of business. Pinwheels can be purchased through Prevent Child Abuse Florida.

Parenting Workshops

Workshops about Parenting Safe Children will be held locally throughout the month. Parents will learn how to discuss body safety, consent, and boundary-setting with children in a non-threatening way. 

Book stresses the importance of talking with children. She states, “Just as you talk with your children about looking both ways before they cross the street … you need to have continued dialogue about [sexual abuse] with your child from the moment they understand you to the moment they walk out your door as an adult.’

Teachers of the Safer Smarter Schools Curriculum, provided in many Palm Beach County schools, often organize Parent Nights to teach parents how to use the same language children are learning in class, such as “safe vs. unsafe secrets” and “body autonomy”.

Boca Raton based organizations like HomeSafe and the Health Care District of Palm Beach County also facilitate local parenting.

Where to Get Help

Suspected abuse can be reported at the Florida Child Abuse Hotline 1-800-96-ABUSE (1-800-962-2873). The hotline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The hotline may also be reached online. This option is best for non-emergencies. Fax is another option; call 1-800-914-0004. The Hearing Impaired should call 1-800-453-5145 or 711.