Abuse & Neglect

POLICY ON ABUSE AND NEGLECT

As childcare providers, we are required by law to report if we suspect that a child is being abused or neglected or is at risk for abuse or neglect. As mandated reporters, law protects staff from discrimination or retaliation for reporting abuse or neglect.  Child abuse is defined as non-accidental physical or mental injury, sexual abuse or neglect of a child under age 18 by a person responsible for the child’s health and welfare, or care by a person given access to the child by a responsible person. The forms of abuse and neglect include the following:

  • Physical Abuse: injuring the child by shaking, beating, burning, or similar acts.
  • Sexual Abuse: engaging in sexual behavior with the child or allowing sexual exploitation of the child.
  • Emotional Abuse: excessive belittling, teasing, or berating which impairs a child’s psychological growth.
  • Neglect: failing to provide for child’s basic needs (food, clothing, shelter, hygiene, education, medical care, and supervision).
  • At Risk: placing a child in danger of abuse and neglect (threaten a child with bodily harm).

If a staff member suspects abuse or neglect, a telephone call will be made to the Department of Children and Families. If the department accepts the case, we will make every effort to safeguard the child and cooperate with the investigation.

If the suspected abuse involves a staff member, the staff member will be put on leave of absence until the investigation is concluded. Abuse is grounds for dismissal.

Staff members will receive a review of mandated reporting policies when hired and annually thereafter. Staff will be urged to attend workshops that deal with this topic.