Our children are the most important members of our society. It is of the utmost importance that we protect them from harm and always act in their best interests. This is why it can be especially heartbreaking when a child is exhibiting signs of abuse. What can you do to make sure the child or children in your life is safe from harm and away from any risk of being abused by a relative or person in a position of trust? Here are some ways to make sure that each child is safe, healthy, and happy, not to mention free from abusive forces in his or her life.
Recognize Common Signs of Child Abuse
In order to put a stop to child abuse as soon as possible, it is important to know the signs that a child in your life is being abused so you can act quickly to contact the proper authorities and put a stop to it. If you are a relative, family friend, or caregiver and notice any strange bruises, cuts, or other injuries that the child either can’t or won’t explain, if the child seems to be improperly cared for in terms of nutrition or hygiene, or if the child acting more withdrawn than usual, you are within your rights to contact child protective services to open an investigation. You might feel as though you’re making a big deal out of nothing, but you could be saving a life!
Remember that Neglect is a Form of Abuse
Child abuse does not always take the form of physical harm. Neglecting your children’s basic needs and leaving them alone for long periods of time is just as much a form of child abuse as physically hitting them. If you suspect that a child you know is being neglected, starved, left home alone, or put in dangerous situations, contact the authorities without delay.
You may worry that contacting the police or child protective services about a suspected case of child abuse is extreme, but that doesn’t mean you should keep quiet about what you have witnessed. You can bring up the issue with the child’s doctor, teacher, school social worker, or clergy member in order to bring the suspected abuse to light and get the child to safety. Remember- we all have a duty to act as advocates for children when they need a voice!
If you are a parent, relative, or caregiver of a child whom you suspect is being or has been abused, it is wise to seek legal action immediately. The law office of Rodriguez Interiano Hanson & Rodgers is here to provide you with the representation and counsel you need during this trying time in your life. Call our southeastern Washington practice today at 509-783-5551 to schedule a consultation.
Child abuse does not always take the form of physical harm. Neglecting your children’s basic needs and leaving them alone for long periods of time is just as much a form of child abuse as physically hitting them. If you suspect that a child you know is being neglected, starved, left home alone, or put in dangerous situations, contact the authorities without delay.
Know Whom to Contact
You may worry that contacting the police or child protective services about a suspected case of child abuse is extreme, but that doesn’t mean you should keep quiet about what you have witnessed. You can bring up the issue with the child’s doctor, teacher, school social worker, or clergy member in order to bring the suspected abuse to light and get the child to safety. Remember- we all have a duty to act as advocates for children when they need a voice!
If you are a parent, relative, or caregiver of a child whom you suspect is being or has been abused, it is wise to seek legal action immediately. The law office of Rodriguez Interiano Hanson & Rodgers is here to provide you with the representation and counsel you need during this trying time in your life. Call our southeastern Washington practice today at 509-783-5551 to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced, licensed attorneys.
