Warning Signs of Child Abuse/Neglect

The following list are signs of neglect...
Regular/Frequent:
       
  • dirty clothes
  • inappropriate clothes for the given weather condition
  • hunger
  • hoarding/stealing food
  • fatigue
  • poor hygiene...smelling of urine, bad breath, decaying teeth
  • untreated medical issues
  • poor relationships
  • withdrawal from others
  • attention seeking actions even if their actions illicit negative attention
  • low self-esteem
These warning signs do not mean a child who performs one of these is neglected. It is far more likely there will be multiple warning signs. Keeping a notebook of these signs being displayed and how often will help you determine if the child in question may be in trouble. If they are frequent and you have suspicion a report must be made.

The following list are signs of physical abuse...
  • marks that have come from an object
  • awkward movements appearing to be caused from pain
  • complaints of soreness or stiffness
  • burns
  • adult-sized bite marks
Bruises:
  • along the cheeks, abdomen, thighs, and half way between the wrist and elbow
  • that are different colored
  • that are in the shape of an object
  • on multiple parts of the body
When it comes to physical abuse and making a report get the story from the student. If they tell you something that does not make sense with their injury that is a sign. If they are evasive that also makes the situation suspicious. Having suspicion after getting the student's story is a good sign you should make a report. If it comes to nothing it is better that you said something in case there really was something going on. A child's safety is always first and foremost. 

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