Child Care Basics
Public Washington
Public Washington
Active 3 days ago
Public Washington
What would you do if you suspected child abuse or neglect?
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What would you do if you suspected child abuse or neglect?
Trainer replied 2 weeks, 2 days ago 265 Members · 952 Replies
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Ryley H
MemberAugust 19, 2024 at 6:51 pmBring my concerns to co-teacher/center leadership. If they agree there is cause for concern then report the issues.
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Destiny Palencia
MemberAugust 19, 2024 at 11:30 pmI would start off by taking note and pictures (if needed) on the child. I would also communicate with the child and assure them that they are safe. If there are signs of abuse and the parent is not giving reasonable answers to the childs injuries, I would contact CPS and allow them to do their investigating and interviews.
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I would talk to the child, document and make a report. The child in my care is priority.
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Coleen
MemberAugust 21, 2024 at 6:43 amI would report it to my director so we can both analyze the situation and determine if there is a valid concern. I would also consider the impact on the family and child if I am misjudging, while also holding to the standard that the child’s safety is most important. If the child can talk, I would ask them about it. Also, I would look for other signs of distress or change, or the lack of them.
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Kate
MemberAugust 22, 2024 at 6:53 pmI would first notify my direct supervisor and the director of the program. Next, I would follow the policy for the program I am in and call cps along with document everything. It’s important to know that if I continue to see issues that I must do a new report every time.
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kate
MemberAugust 22, 2024 at 10:32 pmIf i suspected child abuse or neglect with a child in my care then I would notify my supervisor but also call cps right away. If I thought the child was in immediate danger then I would also call my local law enforcement office. During all of these I would also fill out documentation for records.
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Shamona Murphy
MemberAugust 24, 2024 at 6:47 pmI would report to my superiors and make a report to CPS with them after discussing the best course of action.
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Sherri Cason
MemberAugust 26, 2024 at 11:20 pmThis is a sensitive subject, therefore it is important to truly observe the situation before address it with anyone.
1. I would observe the child carefully
2. Check in with parent/guardian to see how things are going. As a loving parent our intuition will let us know if something is wrong and we need to make a call.
3. Make a call to protect all children
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if i were suspect child abuse I would first tell my licensor then call CPS, even if not im 100% sure I know to trust that instinct and report it to someone. I will not to interview the child about it or push it under the rug, I know it’s CPS’ responsibility now.
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Jaylee Korsvik
MemberAugust 27, 2024 at 7:59 pmIf I suspected abuse or neglect I would report it and document everything I’ve noticed regarding the situation
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If I suspect child abuse or neglect, I am required to report it within 48 hours under penalty.
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Notify the lead or director adn they will investigate and report properly if needed.
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Observe and Document: Carefully observe the child and document any signs or behaviors that raise concerns. This documentation should be objective and include dates, times, and specific observations.
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Do Not Investigate: I would avoid questioning the child or trying to investigate the situation on my own. This is the responsibility of Child Protective Services (CPS).
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Report Immediately: I would contact the appropriate authorities immediately, typically Child Protective Services (CPS) or the local law enforcement agency, as required by law. Reporting is mandatory, even if the signs are subtle or if I’m unsure of the severity.
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Follow Protocol: I would follow the protocol set by my organization, which may include informing my supervisor or director, while ensuring confidentiality is maintained.
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Do Not Inform Parents: In most cases, I would not inform the parents that a report has been made to avoid potential retaliation or tampering with evidence.
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Cooperate with Authorities: I would fully cooperate with CPS or law enforcement if they need to conduct interviews or gather information from the program.
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Support the Child: Provide emotional support to the child within my role, ensuring they feel safe and secure while in my care.
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If I suspected a child in my care was a victim of abuse I would report it to CPS as I am a mandated reporter, I would of course not make assumptions based on prejudices or anything like that only based on the Childs behavior or any warning signs of abuse.
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Heather Mueller
MemberSeptember 2, 2024 at 12:29 amI would be calm before I called, making sure I have my information clear.