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Please take a moment to learn the signs of child abuse in daycare facilities. According to a recent report from the Department of Health and Human Services, of the 678,000 cases of child abuse and neglect that occurred in the U.S. in 2018, more than 2,019 cases occurred at the hands of a daycare provider.
If you think your child is being harmed, contact the authorities and ensure your son or daughter’s safety. You may also contact Kenneth Berger, a child injury lawyer in Columbia, SC, to learn about your legal rights.
Child Abuse Red Flags at Daycare
There are many warning signs that could indicate your child is being mistreated by a daycare provider.
Signs could include:
- behavioral changes, including regression to an infantile state or sudden aggressive behavior;
- sleep disturbances, including bedwetting, nightmares and more;
- fear of leaving you or going to the daycare center;
- fear of undressing, bathing or being nude;
- sudden interest in sex and sexual activities;
- bruises, burns, cuts or other physical injuries that cannot be unexplained;
- sudden changes in appetite or weight; and
- antisocial behavior or extreme shyness.
Abuse can take a number of forms; it can be sexual, physical, verbal or emotional, or it can simply be extreme neglect and a lack of care.
What to Do If You Suspect Your Son or Daughter is Being Harmed
If you recognize signs of abuse, take action immediately. First, remove your child from the daycare and ensure his or her safety. Take the child to a doctor for a full medical evaluation. Your doctor can determine whether the child may have been physically or sexually abused, and can help provide medical care should your child’s wounds or injuries require it.
If it appears your suspicions of abuse are validated, file a report with the Department of Social Services - Child Protective Service Agency in South Carolina. If your case meets the criteria, DSS will assign a caseworker to investigate your claims.
Once you have reported the abuse to DSS, get in contact with a lawyer to learn your legal options. Your family may be due compensation for the injuries and damages the daycare personnel has caused your child.
Legal Help For Your Family
Do you believe your child has been abused? If so, call attorney Kenneth Berger in Columbia, SC at (803) 790-2800 today. We will help protect your rights and seek to make right the harm your son or daughter suffered because of daycare abuse.
