When you're concerned about a Child.

Signs of Abuse:

  • Bed-wetting
  • Fear of leaving mom or caregiver
  • Unexplained physical ailments, such as bladder infections, vaginal infections and anal trauma
  • Unexplained fear, acting out or anxiety
  • Nightmares, night terrors
  • Inappropriate sexual knowledge for their age
  • Physical aggression
  • Children that act like a caretaker
  • Too much responsibility for their age
  • Overly protective parent or siblings

What to Say

Speak to non-offending caregiver about your concerns. Empower caregiver by giving information about abuse and resources.

  • I know where you can get help.
  • Your child seems sad most of the time. Is she/he OK? Can I help?
  • I’d like to be supportive. Can we talk about this again?
  • Adults should never hurt children. It is never the child’s fault.

Always speak to the person you are concerned about privately.

Never speak to anyone else without their permission.

Call your local program to practice what to say and when to say it.

Decide to be a consistent support person, even when they don’t do what you want them to do.

Where to go for more help.