The first sign of abuse and neglect from daycare centers is an unexplained bruise, scratch, or injury. Similarly, if the child is always hungry or thirsty when you pick them up from daycare, this could signify abuse. Uncomfortable questions are also a sign of abuse. Children who can talk to their caregivers are more likely to disclose the abuse and neglect. However, if the child cannot speak, they should be closely monitored.
If you are worried that your child may be experiencing abuse or neglect, read about some common warning signs. Some of these symptoms may be a sign of daycare abuse or neglect. Soiled diapers or prolonged diaper rashes are common signs of daycare abuse. Your child may also show abnormal behavior in social situations. Some of the signs of neglect may result from an understaffed daycare or inadequately trained staff.
Unexplained Bruises, Scratches, or Other Injuries
While it’s normal for children to get bruises during daycare, unexplained bruises are a sign of abuse or neglect. It’s crucial to have your child examined by a doctor immediately if you notice unexplained bruises or scratches. A medical professional will be able to conduct a full physical exam, but they will also be able to assess any additional injuries. It may even be possible to file a lawsuit if the bruises are severe or spread in various areas of the body.
Changes in Behavior
Observing children at daycare can help you spot signs of abuse. If you notice a sudden change in the child’s behavior, this could mean that they are experiencing physical abuse. Changes in behavior could also be signs of sexual abuse. Children may act out sexually and show an unusual interest in sexual matters. They might also show signs of aggression or fear in daycare.
Parents often brush off these behaviors as normal toddler behavior or even tantrums. However, these behaviors can be signs of daycare abuse and neglect. If your child is excessively clingy, they might be suffering from abuse. If your child is overly emotional, they might be pretending to be ill or crying excessively when dropped off. If your child acts frightened, ask more questions and pay attention to how they react to different situations.
If you suspect your child is being abused and neglected from daycare staff, report it to the appropriate authorities. Do not worry if the child is not yet old enough to tell you about what is happening. Sometimes, older children might refuse to tell you about what is happening because of their fear. But trust your gut instincts and do not wait for a child to tell you what they have been going through.
Hungry and Thirsty at Pick Up
Children who consistently need food and water at pick-up are often victims of child abuse and neglect. Lack of adequate nutrition can stunt the child’s emotional development and impair their cognitive abilities. Additionally, emotional abuse may affect the child’s mood and long-term emotional health. Other signs include withdrawn behavior. It is crucial to seek legal help if you suspect your child is mistreated at a daycare.
Recurring Nightmares
Recurring nightmares in children are a common symptom of child abuse and neglect. Recurring nightmares as a sign or symptom of daycare abuse and neglect should be taken seriously. So it’s imperative to report the incident immediately. Parents must be vigilant to recognize these signs. The investigation process may take several months, and during this time, memories fade, and evidence disappears, making it harder for the victims to prove their case. So you must take legal action against the daycare as soon as possible.
Regression
One sign of child abuse or neglect is regression. This is when a child is not happy with the activities or the teachers. In addition, a child abused by neglect or abuse may display aggression or fear. If this is the case, the child might be afraid to report the abuse or may pretend to be ill. Moreover, a child afraid of the teachers or the staff at the daycare may also display sexually inappropriate behavior.
Soiled Diapers and Long-lasting Diaper Rashes
One of the most apparent signs of daycare abuse and neglect is persistent or frequently soiled diapers. Long-lasting diaper rashes can be indicative of not being changed frequently enough. Soiled diapers may also result from rubbing or reacting to chemicals found in the child’s urine or stool. While rashes may be unsightly, they are rarely life-threatening and are easily treatable.
Your Child Starts Acting Out in Social Situations
If you suspect that your child is being abused at daycare, you must immediately act. It is frightening to think that your child might be the victim of abuse or neglect, but you must act on your suspicions. You should take your child to the doctor immediately if the symptoms seem to be related to an injury. You should also visit the daycare during odd hours to determine if there are signs of abuse or neglect.
If your child acts out in social situations and avoids social situations, daycare abuse or neglect has likely affected their development. Some signs of abuse and neglect can be easy to spot in your child. In addition, your child may be frightened, reverting to early childhood behaviors, or exhibiting a host of other signs of abuse or neglect.
What a Personal Injury Attorney Can Do For You
If you suspect that your child is being neglected or abused at daycare, contact Joe I. Zaid & Associates. We offer a free consultation and will fight to recover the maximum compensation you and your child deserve.
Daycare facilities that aren’t providing the care your child needs and are hurt because of negligence should be held accountable for their actions. So don’t hesitate to contact our attorneys. We are here to help you and your child receive the justice you both deserve.