Protect the children

  • Published
  • By Airman Samuel Anderson
  • 366th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
MOUNTAIN HOME AIR FORCE BASE, Idaho --  April is recognized as child abuse prevention month. In the United States, more than 3 million cases of child abuse occur every year.

The pinwheel was chosen as the logo for the "Pinwheels for Prevention" campaign as a way to raise public awareness of child abuse prevention. According to the campaign website, pinwheelsforprevention.org, more than 900,000 pinwheels have been displayed since April 2008.

"The "Pinwheels for Prevention" campaign is part of a national movement to change the way people think about prevention," said Mrs. Connie Powers, 366th Medical Operations Squadron Family Advocacy Outreach manager. "Pinwheels are used to represent the happy childhoods and bright futures children deserve. The pinwheel displays in Idaho and across the nation remind us that we all have a role to play in preventing child abuse and neglect."

The Family Advocacy staff displays the pinwheels near the front gate to recognize child abuse prevention month.

"All children need to be protected and nurtured," said Mrs. Powers. "Families and the community can provide a strong foundation to help our children reach their full potential."

Mrs. Powers stated they want to promote community activities that support children and families and advocate for healthy child development with hope that abuse and neglect never begins.

The base family advocacy office partnered with the Idaho Children's Trust Fund/Prevent Child Abuse Idaho, the state agency affiliated with Prevent Child Abuse America, to obtain the pinwheels. Gunfighters will also see pinwheels displayed near the Youth Center and the Child Development Center. More than 100 pinwheels are on display around base.

The Family Advocacy staff reminds parents that although they may have a lot going on in their life, they must remember to show their children that they care for them.

"Parents today have a lot on their plates," said Mrs. Powers. "Juggling the demands of work, home, military deployments and other responsibilities leaves many parents feeling like they do not have enough time with their children. But small acts of kindness protection, and caring - a hug, a smile or loving word makes a big difference to children. Children do not come with instructions, so parents need to seek out resources and information."

The New Parent Support Program manager reemphasized the importance of parents caring for their kids.

"Research consistently shows that babies who receive affection and nurturing from their parents have the best chance of developing into children, teens and adults who are happy, healthy and competent," said Paula Cumber, 366 MDOS NPSP manager. "The NPSP is one of the best prevention programs the military offers to our young families."

NPSP is a voluntary program for expecting parents or those who have a child up to the age of three. NPSP nurses are able to make home visits and help parents adjust to a new baby in the home as well as provide child growth and development information.

For more information on programs for families contact the base family advocacy office at 828-7520.