Submitted by Jean Simers

The focus of West Virginia's 2011 Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention Month activities is strengthening connections between adults and children in community settings. It takes a village to keep children free from abuse and neglect and everyone has a role to play in this effort.

"It's Your Turn" asks adults to remember a special teacher, mentor, family member or coach who made a positive difference in their lives - and encourages them to pay it forward by supporting children and youth in their community.

It is a theme that encourages good citizenship as a means to keep children free from abuse and neglect.

The "It's Your Turn" campaign also incorporates Prevent Child Abuse America's new symbol for prevention - the pinwheel, and the Pinwheels for Prevention Campaign.

Take a Look at the Facts:

• Youth who have positive mentors are more likely to stay in school and earn high grades and less likely to smoke, use drugs or carry a weapon. (Public/Private Ventures)

• Children who are read to at least three times a week start school ready to learn and are able to master reading and language skills more quickly. (Early Childhood Longitudinal Study)

• An adult's attitude is key to a child's successful learning. A recent study shows that when adults approach children in a spirit of equal partnership and respect, the child learns more quickly, is more involved in learning and is more creative about problem solving. (National Teacher Research Panel)

• Youth who have positive family role models and good family communication are 2.5 times less likely to use alcohol than youth without these assets. (Oman, Vesely, et.al.)

• Singing, talking and playing with young children activates the construction of their developing brain and has a positive impact on their future learning and career success. (Carnegie Foundation)

• Kids who regularly eat dinner with their family are healthier, better adjusted emotionally, and have high self-esteem. (Nemours Health and Prevention Services)