But How Do I Know?

Since I started this blog I have been asked by several people what they can do about children they think *might* be in dangerous situations. I believe your instinct is one of the best weapons we have--please do not ignore that feeling that something might be wrong.

You may also have a legal obligation to report your suspicions. Every state has some form of mandatory reporting law. That means that no matter where you live, you are required by law to make a report depending on the circumstances. To find out about the law where you live, visit RAINN.

Here's some additional guidance:

Children who are physically abused may:
* Be nervous around adults.
* Be watchful, as though preparing for something bad to happen.
* Have difficulty playing.
* Act aggressively toward adults and other children.
* Be unable to concentrate at school.
* Suddenly underachieve – or overachieve – at school.
* Find it difficult to trust other people and make friends.
*Arrive at school too early or leave after the other children.

Children who are sexually abused may:
* Behave differently when the abuse starts.
* Care less about their appearance or their health.
* Talk or act sexually at too early an age.
* Be secretive and stop talking about home life.
* Start soiling themselves.
* Be unable to sleep.
* Suddenly find physical contact frightening.

Children who are neglected or emotionally abused may:
* Have difficulty learning to talk.
* Find it hard to develop close relationships.
* Be overly friendly with strangers.
* Be unable to play imaginatively.
* Think badly of themselves.
* Underachieve at school.
(Taken from: http://www.charmeck.org/Departments/DSS/Youth+and+Family+Services/Protecting+Kids/Home.htm)