Warning Signs of Child Maltreatment

Discipline does not require the use of any implement, such as a belt or stick, and should not leave bruises or draw blood. A few signs of abuse could be:

Unexplained bruises or welts especially on face, lips, back, buttocks, and thighs;
Bruises in various stages of healing;
Unexplained burns: cigar, cigarette burns;
Immersion burns;
Pattern burns ;
Internal injuries;
Unexplained fractures/dislocations;
Unexplained lacerations or abrasions;
Head injuries;
Unexplained bald patches;
Obvious attempts to hide bruises or injuries;
Inappropriate clothing for the weather;
Excessive school absenteeism;
Fear of parents or adults;
Running away;
Arriving to school early/leaving late;
Behavioral extremes: extremely aggressive, oppositional, demanding;
Behavioral extremes: overly compliant, passive, withdrawn;
Academic/behavioral problems at school;
Cognitive impairment;
Deficits in speech and language;
Lack of basic trust in others;
Depression, low self esteem;
Destructive behavior;
Suicidal tendencies;
Fatigue; and
Hypervigilance (http://justiceforchildren.org/…help/physical-abuse/).

Excerpted From

http://community.yesican.org/blog/signs-child-abuse-prevention-month-usa

How to Report Suspected Child Maltreatment

If you suspect a child is being abused or neglected, or if you are a child who is being maltreated, contact your local child protective services office or law enforcement agency so professionals can assess the situation. Many States have a toll-free number to call to report suspected child abuse or neglect. To find out where to call, consult the Information Gateway publication, State Child Abuse Reporting Numbers.

Anyone can report suspected child abuse or neglect. Reporting abuse or neglect can protect a child and get help for a family it may even save a child’s life. In some States, any person who suspects child abuse or neglect is required to report. To see how your State addresses this issue, read the Information Gateway publication, Mandatory Reporters of Child Abuse and Neglect.

Excerpted from

https://www.childwelfare.gov/topics/responding/reporting/how/