Pinwheels represent childlike lightheartedness; a vision for a world where all children grow up happy, healthy and prepared to succeed.

The strength of the Army is rooted not only in its Soldiers, but in the well-being of Army Families. Preventing child abuse is vital for creating healthy home environments where children can thrive. Through prevention efforts and access to resources, the Army is committed to strengthening Families and fostering safe, nurturing Family relationships. When The strength of the Army is rooted not only in its Soldiers, but in the well-being of Army Families. Preventing child abuse is vital for creating healthy home environments where children can thrive. Through prevention efforts and access to resources, the Army is committed to strengthening Families and fostering safe, nurturing Family relationships. When Families feel supported and connected, they are better able to navigate the challenges of military life.

“Military life brings incredible opportunities, but it also brings stressors that are unique to the force,” said Margarita N. Boswell, Army Community Service Specialist for the Directorate of Prevention, Resilience and Readiness. “Frequent moves, deployments and demanding schedules can place pressure on Families if they do not have strong support systems in place.”

These pressures can lead to isolation, fatigue and overwhelming responsibilities for parents. Prevention programs aim to support Families early—before challenges grow into crises.

“Child abuse prevention is not just about responding when something goes wrong,” Boswell explained. “It is about building resilient Families who have the skills, resources and support they need to navigate the stresses of military life in healthy ways.”

Through an integrated prevention approach, the Army provides a wide network of support services to help Families build those skills and connections. Programs, such as the Family Advocacy Program, New Parent Support Program and Child, Youth and School Services offer education on child development, positive discipline strategies and stress management. These resources give parents practical tools to respond to challenges and maintain stable home environments. Boswell emphasized that prevention programs are designed to empower Families, not judge them.

“Our goal is to meet Families where they are and provide support before stress becomes overwhelming. When Families feel comfortable reaching out for help, we can connect them to the right resources and strengthen their ability to care for their children,” she said.

Boswell added that leaders play an important role in supporting Families and reinforcing the value of prevention programs. Command teams help shape how Soldiers perceive and engage with available resources. When leaders openly encourage the use of support services and emphasize the importance of Family well-being, they help reduce stigma and make it easier for Soldiers and Families to seek assistance.

“Leaders who actively promote Family support programs help create a culture where Soldiers understand that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness,” Boswell said.

The Army is dedicated to preventing child abuse by investing in prevention and connecting parents to the right resources—because all children deserve to be safe, and the well-being of Families strengthens the entire Army community.