Why Pinwheels?

The blue and silver pinwheel is the national symbol for child abuse prevention, introduced in 2008 by Prevent Child Abuse America through the Pinwheels for Prevention® campaign. Today, the pinwheel represents more than happy childhoods. Its shape and motion reflect how prevention works.

With families at the center, each turn of the pinwheel represents the systems, programs, policies and everyday acts of care that help families thrive. From home visiting and early childhood supports to health and economic policy, every turn unlocks new possibilities.

The spinning pinwheel reminds us that when communities align around families, children are safer, stronger and full of possibility. In many ways, the pinwheel is a call to action. It highlights our shared responsibility, across schools, businesses, faith communities, health care and government, to center families in everything we do.

Since 1983, April has been recognized nationwide as Child Abuse Prevention (CAP) Month. Each April, communities across the country come together to strengthen families, prevent child abuse and neglect before it occurs and promote child and family well-being. The color blue and the pinwheel serve as visible reminders of this commitment. When you see pinwheels spinning across Kansas, they signal something powerful: prevention is possible, and it starts with all of us.

Be part of the movement to ensure every child has the chance to grow up safe, supported and loved. You can show your support by:

Every pinwheel displayed is more than decoration. It is a visible commitment to center families and strengthen communities, one turn at a time.