April marks National Child Abuse Prevention Month, a time dedicated to highlighting the importance of programs that prioritize the well-being of children and families. This year, thread is proud to kick off the month by celebrating Go Blue Day on Friday, April 4, 2025, in partnership with Alaska Children’s Trust.
What is Go Blue Day?
Go Blue Day is a fun and creative way to raise awareness about child abuse prevention. Each year, on the first Friday of April, we encourage everyone to get involved by wearing blue, decorating with blue, or getting inventive with blue-themed activities. Whether you paint your nails, dye your food, or craft a sign, we want you to get creative and spread the word.
How to Participate:
- Wear blue or paint your nails with blue polish.
- Make blue food using food coloring—blue pancakes, blue milk, or even blue ice cream!
- Use blue shampoo to temporarily color your hair blue or blue hair accessories to show your support.
- Share your Go Blue Day moments on social media using the hashtag #GoBlueDayAK to be featured on the Alaska Children’s Trust page.
Why Go Blue Day Matters
Go Blue Day serves as a reminder that child abuse is preventable and emphasizes the importance of building strong, supportive communities for children and families. By coming together, we can help foster emotional and social well-being in children. Child abuse prevention starts with each of us. When communities are committed to the healthy development of their children, everyone benefits. This year, the theme for National Child Abuse Prevention Month is “Powered by Hope, Strengthened by Prevention.”
Activities and Resources for Child Abuse Prevention
There are many ways to get involved this month, from creative activities to educational resources:
- Go Blue Activity Kit: Find plenty of blue-themed ideas to get you started.
- Sponsor Child Abuse Prevention Month: Learn how you can help support this important cause.
- Training and Events: Check out upcoming trainings and events dedicated to strengthening families and communities.
Strengthening Families: A Key to Prevention
At thread, we believe in the power of strong families. The Strengthening Families initiative is based on research that highlights five protective factors that contribute to healthier, safer childhoods. By focusing on these factors, we help families and child care programs create a solid foundation for children’s well-being.
The five protective factors are:
- Parental Resilience
- Social Connections
- Knowledge of Parenting & Child Development
- Concrete Support in Times of Need
- Healthy Social & Emotional Development of Children
These factors are essential for families to thrive, and we encourage you to learn more about how they can make a positive impact. Attend our next Strengthening Familiestraining on April 4: Register here
thread will also be hosting a training for Keeping Children Safe: SIDS, SBS and Child Abuse on May 3.
Register here.
Reporting Child Abuse: Your Role in Prevention
Everyone has a role in protecting children. If you suspect or witness child abuse or neglect, it’s crucial to act. Use the following information to report concerns:
- Call 1-800-478-4444
- Email ReportChildAbuse@alaska.gov
- Fax: 907-269-3939
If it’s an emergency, always call 9-1-1.
We believe it takes a village to raise a child, and you don’t need to be a parent to play a part in keeping children safe. Don’t hesitate to ask for help if you need it. You can also connect with community resources by calling 2-1-1 from anywhere in Alaska.
Celebrate Go Blue Day and Support Child Abuse Prevention
This April, let’s come together to celebrate Go Blue Day and kick off National Child Abuse Prevention Month by making a difference in the lives of children. Building positive childhood experiences for all kids is something we can all contribute to.
By participating in Go Blue Day and learning more about child abuse prevention, you’re helping create a better, safer future for every child. Join us and be part of this vital cause—let’s work together to ensure children grow up healthy, happy, and supported.