What Happens After Child Care Providers Report Suspected Child Abuse or Neglect?

Reporting a suspicion of child abuse or neglect is a stressful thing for child care providers. But what happens to the report after you contact your local police department or child protection agency?

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What Happens after You Report

First, the agency receiving the report must decide if the information provided justifies an investigation. If so, an investigation is started right away. In some states, action is taken within a 24-hour period. But it may take 30 to 60 days to …

Child Care and Child Abuse and Neglect

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Suspecting child abuse or neglect can be a difficult situation for a child care provider. The following articles provide valuable information for this situation. Learn how to identify abuse and neglect, as well as how to prevent and respond to abuse and neglect.

What Child Care Providers Need to Know about Responding to Abuse and Neglect

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Responding to suspicions of abuse and neglect is one of the most challenging jobs a child care provider can face. Whether you see a bruise that looks suspicious or a child tells you someone has hurt him, you may feel overwhelmed and not sure what to do next.

Remember that child care providers are mandated reporters of abuse and neglect in most states. You have a legal responsibility to report your suspicions, and can be held legally responsible if you …

Guidelines for Child Care Providers on How to Report Suspected Abuse or Neglect

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If you are a child care provider who suspects that a child in your care has been abused or neglected, it is essential that you report your suspicions. Child care providers are mandated reporters of abuse and neglect, and you can be held legally liable if you do not report abuse and a child dies.

How do you go about reporting your suspicions? Here are some basic steps:

  • Talk with your center director. If you work in a child care

When Child Care Providers Should Report Suspected Abuse or Neglect

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Deciding to report suspected child abuse or neglect is a tough decision for all child care providers. Here are some guidelines for deciding when to make a report.

  • Report immediately if a child is in danger. Take action and dial 911 if a child could be seriously hurt.
  • Report concerns by phone within 24 hours if your concerns are serious, but you do not feel the child is in immediate danger. It is easier to remember details and information that