Children are suffering right now! There is practically a hidden epidemic of child abuse and neglect in the U.S. and worldwide! While roughly 3 million reports surface every year, how many instances of child abuse go unreported? It's estimated that the number is 3 times the reported number!! Nine million children could be suffering from abuse each year!

Physical, emotional and sexual signs of an abused child:

• Unexplained burns, cuts, bruises or welts anywhere on their body

• Fear of adults

• Anti-social behavior

• Trouble in school or at a friend's or neighbor's house

• Bite marks

• Nightmares and bed wetting

• Drastic appetite changes

• Inappropriate interest or talk of sexual acts

• Excessive compliance

• Excessive agression

• Fear of a family member or school official

• Apparent lack of supervision

• Unsuitable clothing for the current weather conditions

• Dirty clothing or skin

• Extreme hunger or thirst

The statistics on abuse are scary and the above signs could be real. Don't be a statistic, below are some tips to remember:

• Ask questions, if your child fears another family member or school official, find out why?

• Don't discipline your child when you yourself needs discipline or when your anger is not controllable

• Never, absolutely never, leave your child unattended, especially in the car!

• Participate in your child's activities and it's always a good idea to learn about your child's friends

• Teach your child about “good touches” and “bad touches” or the confusing category of “confusing touches”

If you think you might know someone who is being abused, please don't hesitate to get them help! Abuse is scary, but that's no reason to turn your back on the issue.

See:
Facts for Families #9 Child Sexual Abuse #28 Responding to Child Sexual Abuse, and #43 Discipline

This article was written by Tim Manasterski, a Metrodaycare.com staff member.