For example, you might notice that your neighbor’s child used to be outgoing and full of life, but now seems scared to go outside or play. Even infants and toddlers can show changes in behavior. For example, they may become overly fussy without any obviously explainable cause.
For example, if you are watching a child at daycare and they throw a tantrum at every activity or every time an adult asks them to do something, this can be a reason to worry.
If you are babysitting a child who has been abused, for example, you may notice that they have grown very thin and shows no interest in eating.
When a child returns to daycare or preschool after a long absence, ask the parent or caregiver why the child was out. Take note if they seem reluctant to talk about it, or to lie about it, like “We went to visit the grandparents on the other side of the country” when you know the grandparents actually live in the same city. It can be really scary to confront the parent or caregiver, but you should at least ask about the absence for the child’s sake.
Mild separation anxiety is also common among infants and toddlers, and does not necessarily indicate abuse. Keep in mind that just because a child seems afraid of a caregiver, it does not mean that that caregiver is abusing the child. If there is a problem, someone else at home may be the cause. If you are taking care of children as a babysitter, daycare worker, etc. , talk to the child if they seem afraid of going home. Thinking about potential abuse can make you feel very emotional, but remember you are trying to help the child one way or another.
For example, if you are babysitting a child who constantly tells you she is afraid of being burned by a parent, that can be a real cause for concern.
Keep in mind that some curiosity about sexual matters (like the differences between boys and girls) is natural at some stages. If you notice something like one of your child’s friends play acting sexual acts in graphic detail, however, this is unusual and should be investigated.
You may see things like marks, bites, scratches, or burns that appear to have been made with an object. You may also see injuries that are unusual for infants or toddlers, like black eyes. You may see fading bruises or wounds after an absence from daycare or preschool. If you ask the parent or caregiver about infant’s or toddler’s injuries, they may offer an excuse that seems fake or unlikely, such as “Tim got that burn because he built a campfire in the backyard. " Keep in mind that some forms of physical discipline (mild spanking, for instance) is not necessarily abuse. [8] X Trustworthy Source Child Welfare Information Gateway Online portal managed by the U. S. Children’s Bureau providing resources related to childcare and abuse prevention Go to source
Make sure to show the authorities any evidence of the abuse you may have, such as pictures of injuries, attendance records, or statements from the child.
