As a parent, your first priority for your children is always maintaining their safety. When you drop your child off at daycare, you expect that very safety to be provided by the staff. The reality is, however, that the safety that you provide your child at home may not always be present when you drop them off at daycare. There are several signs to tell if your child is experiencing abuse, and this blog will inform you on what to do if you find yourself in this situation.
Warning Signs of Abuse
The signs of abuse by your child can become very evident when you know what you are looking for. It will be tough to get any information from your child directly because most abusers instill the fear of getting in trouble into children in order for their secrets to be kept. This in turn makes children feel as though they are unable to talk about what they are going through to anyone, especially their parents.
In terms of behavior, children will experience extreme mood swings and changes in demeanor that may signal abuse. Patterns of aggressive behavior such as hitting, kicking, screaming, and biting can be ways in which children attempt to deal with their trauma. The opposite is true as well, if your child has become suddenly withdrawn, it may be a sign that they are keeping a secret. Frequent night terrors are also ways in which children react when confronted with trauma.
What To Do Next
The first thing you can do if you suspect abuse is to go straight to a doctor. This is important to do if you begin to consistently find new cuts and bruises on your child’s body. Genital soreness and itchiness is also a massive red flag if exhibited by your child, and they should be taken to a doctor immediately. Once you inform you doctor of your concerns, they will be able to conduct a comprehensive examination of your child and determine if your suspicions can be physically validated.
If your doctor confirms that there are clear signs of abuse, do not take your child back to the daycare. Take time to talk with some of the parents of other children in the daycare to see if their children are experiencing the same patterns as your child. If similar symptoms become patterns among other children, your case against this abusive organization has a better chance to maintain its strength.
Lastly, report what you have found to the authorities. Once reported, an investigation of the facility will be immediately launched to identify and bring those responsible to justice. The investigation may take time to conduct, and become extremely painful for any family involved. Taking on experienced legal representation can be the best way to alleviate some of the stress and pain of a long investigative process.
At Crane Flores, LLP., we are dedicated to serving and bringing justice for the most innocent among us. If you wish to seek experienced and caring legal representation, fill out one of our contact forms to set up a free consultation or give us a call at (805) 628-4967 for more information.