ABUSE & NEGLECT OF CHILDREN
Child abuse is any kind of harm to a child’s body, emotional pain, neglect, or use for sexual purposes that can cause injury or psychological damage to a child.
FOUR TYPES OF ABUSE
EMOTIONAL ABUSE-when a child is constantly put-down, called
names, or criticized so that they lose confidence in self (occurs when
a caregiver exposes a child to criticism, violence, and frightening
events.)
NEGLECT ABUSE- when a child is left alone or is ignored by a
parent, causing a child to have emotional and health problems.
The basic needs of food, nurturance, safety, education, and medical
care are not being met.
PHYSICAL ABUSE- an injury to a child that is not caused by an
accident. The injury may include: bruises, welts, cuts, broken bones,
burns, internal injuries, and even death.
SEXUAL ABUSE-when an older person or one of power uses a child
for a sexual purpose, (involves age inappropriate sexual activity).
ABUSE REGISTRY 1-800-962-2873
To anonymously report child abuse or neglect, the report is referred to a local
agency for investigation and follow-up.
CHILD ABUSE SERVICES 954-760-7396
The system within the Broward County School system when a child is reported
as abused and neglected.
HUGS FOR KIDS 954-784-6400
2335 E. Atlantic Blvd. (Pompano Beach)
PARENTS INFORMATION AND RESOURCE CENTER 954-785-8285
Provides information and support for persons accused of child abuse.
WHAT YOU CAN DO …………..
WHEN PARENTS MISTREAT THEIR CHILDREN IN PUBLIC…
Sympathize with the parent. Say something like, “She seems to be trying your patience,” or “My child used to get upset like that.”
Divert the angry attention away from the child. Strike up conversation with the adult. Ask a question or directions, anything to provide a distraction and the time for the parent’s anger to subside.
Compliment or praise the parent or child. Say something positive. “What a big, strong boy you have! How old is he?” or “It’s a lot of work to shop with a toddler. You have my admiration for managing it!”
Offer sympathy and help. Sometimes a parent’s anger is fueled by some embarrassment at the fuss the child is making. “Children sure can wear you out! Is there anything I can do to help?” “Taking kids out to eat is hard! I’m sure everyone here is remembering that and giving you credit for your patience.”
Alert the store manager. If you are concerned about the child’s physical safety. Ask someone with authority over the parent to communicate that, “This is a safe place for children. We do not spank her.”
Quietly stand guard if the child is being neglected and in jeopardy. For example, a child left unattended in a grocery cart or a toddler at a street or parking lot curbside.
HOW TO REPORT ABUSE OF A CHILD ?
1-800-962-2873
