Kids Need All Adults to Report Suspected Abuse

Signs a Child May Not be Safe

Child appears frightened of the caregiver.
Child has burns, bites, broken bones, bruising, black eyes, or complaints of pain.
Caregiver offers no explanation of child’s injury or the parent “blames’” the child’s behavior or personality for the injury. Ask yourself “Does the story match the injury?”
Child attaches very quickly to strangers or new adults in their environment.
Demonstrates unusual sexual knowledge or behavior for their age.
Difficulty walking or sitting.
Witnessing an adult inappropriately touching a child, watching pornography with a child, or saying sexual things to a child.
Child shows extremes in behavior: overly aggressive or compliant.
Appears emotionally unattached to caregiver and others.
Caregiver constantly blames, belittles, or berates the child and refuses to help the child when needed.
Child begs or steals food, has very poor hygiene, or states that no one at home provides care.
Witnessing a child using alcohol or other drugs.
Highly stressful family situations and/or adults in home abusing alcohol or other drugs.
Unlocked weapons or guns in the home.

Kids Count on Adults to Protect Them

In times of crisis and economic instability, child abuse and neglect rates increase. Children may not be going to school, activities, places of worship, and other public places where adults look out for their safety and well-being.

TRUST YOUR GUT

If something does not look safe, sound safe, or feel safe – make a report.

MAKING A REPORT IS ASKING FOR HELP AND SERVICES

When you report, you are asking for a professional to help a child and their family. You do not need proof. You are not making an accusation.

YOU MAY BE THE ONLY PERSON TO REPORT

If you reasonably suspect a child is unsafe– report. Anonymous reports are accepted from anyone. Anyone making a report in good faith is protected against civil/criminal penalty or adverse employment action. Your identity is held confidential and will not be revealed.