Gov. Kay Ivey recently declared April 25 as “Bubbles for Love” day and April 21-27 as Parental Alienation Prevention Week in the state. On Monday, April 1, Mayor Gary Waters proclaimed the same during a Pelham City Council meeting.

April is also Child Abuse Prevention and Awareness Month – a time to emphasize that children deserve the leadership of the adults around them to ensure their health, wellness and safety.

Ivey signed the “Bubbles for Love” proclamation on March 27 and in the process recognized the impact that parental alienation has on a child.

According to Ivey’s proclamation, about 40,000 Alabama kids per year experience court ordered visitation with one parent for only two to six days per month.

Parental Alienation is a term used to describe any number of behaviors and attitudes on the part of one parent, both parents or third party designed to interfere, damage or destroy the relationship a child has with their other parent.

Alienating behaviors are frequently seen in high-conflict divorces, separations and asymmetrical custody arrangements but can occur in intact marriages.

According to a news release from the Alabama Family Rights Association, parental alienation “deprives children of their right to freely love and be loved by both parents, their extended families and robs children of their sense of security.”

“Data shows that we do not value the importance of the parent/child relationship enough,” the release states. “It is harming our kids, our families, our communities and our state. The primary goal of the Alabama Family Rights Association is to educate the public and government officials concerning the importance of equal involvement of both fit parents in a child’s life which promotes the value of a child to be able to love and be loved by both parents. We encourage you to help us in spreading our message through your participation in this year’s ‘Bubbles for Love’ campaign.”

At noon on April 25, residents throughout the state are asked to blow soap bubbles inside or outside for 10 minutes. The act symbolizes the love that should flow freely between children and their parents without fear or guilt.

During Parental Alienation Prevention Week, the nation is asked to acknowledge the importance of families and communities working together to prevent child abuse and neglect, and to promote the social and emotional well-being of children and families.

Residents are encouraged to take a photo or video with people blowing bubbles and enjoying time together, and post it on social media using #BubblesForLove.

In Shelby County, “Bubbles for Love” day is sponsored by the Alabama Family Rights Association, Exchange Club Child Abuse Prevention Center and the Exchange Club of Shelby County.