[Anna N.]

If I suspect something is up I would notify my lead teacher/manager; I would keep the safety of the child at the forefront of my mind. After discussion with the manager/lead teachers, we will further discuss reporting a case to CPS.

[Tania Flores]

I would report it to CPS right away.

[Laysha]

I would talk to one of the main teachers because they have more of a perception of the child’s home life. Some children have it worse than others and while keeping it confidential i would talk to all the teachers or directors so they could help to further investigate.

[Tetiana Nix]

Any suspicions that I have and if I see a pattern of issues I will talk to my supervisor to let them know my observations

[Samantha Lucey]

My first step would be to alert my supervisor or higher-up about the suspicions, talk with aids and/or co teachers in your classroom, and be well-rounded on whether everyone is noticing the pattern.

[Autumn Canfield]

If I suspected child abuse or neglect, I would first talk to my co teacher and see if she thought the same thing. That is a very big accusation to throw out, but also a very serious situation if that is actually happening. If my co teacher suspected the same thing, I would then talk to our center director and report it.

[allie]

If you suspect child abuse or neglect, it is important to take appropriate steps to ensure the safety and well-being of the child. Here’s what you can do:

1. Document Your Observations: Write down any observations or behaviors that lead you to suspect abuse or neglect. Note dates, times, and specific details of what you observed.

2. Report Your Concerns: Follow your organization’s protocols for reporting suspected abuse or neglect. In many cases, this involves notifying your supervisor or the designated authority within your organization. If you are unsure of the reporting process, contact your local child protective services agency or law enforcement for guidance.

3. Make a Report: Provide as much information as possible when making a report. Be prepared to share your observations, any relevant documentation, and the names of individuals involved. Reporting suspected abuse or neglect is typically done confidentially, and you are protected from legal liability as long as you make the report in good faith.

4. Cooperate with Authorities: If authorities investigate your report, cooperate fully with their inquiries. Provide any additional information or documentation they request and be available to answer questions.

5. Support the Child: If a child discloses abuse or neglect to you, listen attentively and offer support and reassurance. Let the child know that they are not to blame and that you are there to help keep them safe.

6. Follow Up: After making a report, follow up with the appropriate authorities to ensure that action is being taken to address the situation. Continue to monitor the child’s well-being and provide support as needed.

Remember that reporting suspected abuse or neglect is a legal and ethical obligation aimed at protecting children from harm. It is essential to take action promptly and responsibly if you have concerns about a child’s safety or well-being.

[Jordan]

I would report it. I would rather be safe than sorry. I wouldn’t want to be responsible for something happening because I didn’t report it.

[Christina Rachelle Fiant]

Depending on the severity and if I was already speaking to the child when I noticed something of concern, I would either speak to the child first and ask some questions and speak to another teacher and supervisor to let them know, or speak to another teacher or supervisor first and gain any pertinent information I may not already have that could make a difference in the pursuit of the matter, and then possibly go speak to the child together with other staff member or supervisor, and then make call if information seemed uncertain or concerning to the point we felt that was the safest step.

[Bethany]

Make a report and talk with the director of the child care center.

[Mackenzie]

If I suspected child abuse or neglect I would talk to them about it and then I would report it to my supervisor or director, then I would continue observing and gathering evidence.

[Mackenzie]

The child’s wellbeing always comes first so if I noticed signs of abuse, I would consult with the lead teacher to see if they have seen the same signs I have and if they have, I will report it to the director and to CPS.

[Mason]

Child First always is a principle that honors and protects all children. This includes keeping them away from harm in all scenarios and is part of the ethical responsibility of the Lead.

[Jose Antonio Montor Torres]

If I suspect child abuse, I would talk to my supervisor and follow all polices and than I will call CPS immediately.

[Lucy]

Speak to my lead teacher and supervisor about my concerns, bringing specific examples and reasons why I suspect abuse/neglect. Note the child’s behavior, are they behaving differently?

Escalate to contacting CPS.