Department of Family Services - Children and Families

Fairfax County, Virginia

CONTACT INFORMATION: Monday - Friday 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

703-324-7500
TTY 711

DFSinfo@fairfaxcounty.gov

12011 Government Center Parkway, Pennino Building
Fairfax, VA 22035

Nannette Bowler,
Director

Department Resources

Related Resources

April is Child Abuse Prevention Month

2019 Child Abuse Prevention Month graphic

During Child Abuse Prevention Month and every month, we strive to create a strong, thriving community through Building Stronger Families.

Many county residents are already playing a role in preventing child abuse, strengthening families and creating great childhoods in this community. You can help too!

Donate goods, money or time to an organization supporting children and families such as Volunteer and Partner Services.
Volunteer with children through places of worship, schools, and sports or academic clubs.
Mentor or tutor a child in your family, neighborhood, or community.
Attend a Parenting Education Class with your children.
Know the signs of child abuse and neglect, and if you see something, say something. If you're concerned about a child's well-being; want to report or discuss a possible abuse or neglect situation; or want advice, counseling, resources or help, please call the Child Protective Services Hotline at 703-324-7400, TTY 711.

Read on for more information about child abuse prevention efforts in Fairfax County.

Can I Leave My Child Home Alone? New Child Supervision Guidelines

There are no laws in Virginia that say when or for how long a child can be left alone. Working with other jurisdictions in Northern Virginia, Fairfax County has developed these updated supervision guidelines and helpful tips for parents and caretakers to consider before leaving a child alone.

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Preparing Your Child to Stay Home Alone

Parents are ultimately responsible for making decisions about their children’s safety. Every child is different and must be assessed based on their maturity, skills and comfort level to be home alone for any period of time. Once you have assessed that your child is ready, learn steps that Fairfax County offers to prepare your child for this new responsibility.

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Pinwheel "Gardens" Across the County

Pinwheels are the national symbol for child abuse prevention. They symbolize a happy, healthy childhood. We are partnering with the Library, Park Authority and others to plant pinwheel gardens across the county – be on the lookout for these “gardens” during the month of April! Email photos to us or post your photos to social media with the hashtag #PinwheelsForPrevention.

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Successes of Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention Efforts

Children’s lives can be positively changed and even saved by active and aware community members making that critically important decision to ask more questions and offer help. Fairfax County has always been and continues to be a community that is absolutely dedicated to the safety of children and to providing the appropriate supports to parents to keep families healthy. Learn more about FY18 successes of child abuse and neglect prevention efforts.

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