OVERVIEW
April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month, and we urge communities to recognize this month by working together to support child abuse prevention programs and activities, increase awareness about child abuse and contribute to promoting the social and emotional wellbeing of children and families in a safe, stable and nurturing environment.
Child abuse prevention remains the best defense for our children and families and effective prevention activities succeed because of the partnerships created between child welfare professionals, education, health, community and faith- based organizations, business, law enforcement agencies and families.
Why This Matters: Advancing Our 2026 Strategic Goals
At LACOE, Child Abuse Prevention Month is more than awareness, it reflects our ongoing commitment to building the capacity of educators to recognize, respond to and prevent child abuse and neglect through informed, culturally responsive practices.
As part of our 2026 strategic goals, we are prioritizing professional learning and systems of support that empower educators to act as informed mandated reporters while also strengthening family-centered approaches.
Our progress to date includes:
- 1,552 LACOE employees completed the Educator Supplemental Training through our Learning Management System between December 2025 and January 2026
- 1,898 educators across 10 districts and charter schools were trained during Q3 and Q4 of 2025
These efforts reflect our continued investment in equipping school communities with the knowledge and tools needed to support students and families, prevent harm and respond appropriately when concerns arise.
PODCAST EPISODE - LET ME ADD TO THAT
What You Need to Know About Child Abuse Prevention
April marks National Child Abuse Prevention Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness and fostering proactive efforts to protect children and support families. Preventing child abuse isn’t just the responsibility of social workers or educators—it’s a shared commitment that requires awareness, collaboration and action from all of us.
In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Tamara Hunter, Executive Director of the L.A. County Mandated Supporting Initiative, and Alicia Garoupa, LACOE’s Chief of Wellbeing and Support Services. Together, they will share insights on the current landscape of child abuse prevention, the importance of early intervention and the resources available to strengthen families and communities. This is an important conversation that reinforces our collective role in ensuring the safety and well-being of children.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
Professional Development Opportunity
2025-26 Training
Child Abuse Prevention Month Action Calendar 2026
LACOE Board Resolution
Board Resolution 50 recognizing National Child Abuse Prevention Month
LACOE Mandated Supporting Initiative
Learn how the Los Angeles County Office of Education is working with key partners to transform the mandated reporting process in education across Los Angeles County to better support historically underserved children, youth and families.
Child Welfare Information Gateway
Provides information about National Child Abuse Prevention Month, data, ACEs, Protective Factors and an Outreach Toolkit.
Outreach Toolkit
- 30-Day Child Abuse Prevention Month Action Calendar
View daily ideas to raise awareness and promote safe environments for children. - Overview: Mandated Reporting Reform in Los Angeles County Schools
View data for Mandated Reports in L.A. County - Zoom Background Graphic
Download Zoom background - Social Media Templates
Customize templates to post on social media - How You Can Support Child Abuse Prevention Month
1. Implement Assembly Bill (AB) 2085 Learn about guidance for mandated reporters in Los Angeles County. Take the training.
2. Utilize the Family Resource Finder Connect families to critical resources and support services. Explore tools: Find Resources.
3. Share, Support and Spread Awareness
-Use social media posts to amplify awareness.
-Access additional tools to help make a difference.
-Join the movement and encourage others to #ProtectChildren
Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services
This link will provide viewers with how to Report Child Abuse within, and outside of California. Additional services for hearing impaired are available here.
California Department of Social Services
This site provides the viewer with a host of resources and links that speak on Shaken Baby Syndrome, How You Can Help and much more.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
View facts from the CDC on child abuse and neglect.
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