Reporting Child Abuse
A Guide for Teachers
Presented by
Vava Barton
Amy Weatherford
Monica Logue
Why teachers?
May be the first to see child abuse
Must report to proper authorities
Are guaranteed confidentiality
Are guaranteed immunity from liability
What is child abuse?
Physical Abuse
Physical Neglect
Sexual Abuse
Emotional Maltreatment
If you suspect child abuse…
Here are some
indicators that abuse
may be going on inside
the home
Physical Abuse
Physical Indicators Behavioral Indicators
Unexplained bruises or Wary of adult contact
welts Behavioral extremes
Unexplained burns Afraid to go home
Unexplained
lacerations or abrasions
Physical Neglect
Physical Indicators Behavioral Indicators
Consistent hunger Begging or stealing
Poor hygiene food
Inappropriate dress Constant fatigue or
Unattended medical falling asleep
problems Extended time at
school
Sexual Abuse
Physical Indicators Behavioral Indicators
Difficulty walking or Unwilling to change
sitting clothes for PE
Torn or bloody Unusual sexual
underclothing behavior or knowledge
STDs Withdrawal or fantasy
Pregnancy behavior
Emotional Maltreatment
Physical Indicators Behavioral Indicators
Speech Disorders Habit disorders
Lags in physical Behavior extremes
development Lags in mental and
Failure-to-thrive emotional development
Attempted suicide
If a child tells you…
Any time a child
tells you that
abuse is
happening in the
home, it must be
reported.
In your classroom
Use age-appropriate language to discuss
abuse
Make your classroom a safe place
Listen to what children talk about with each
other
Watch for behaviors
How to report abuse
Florida Abuse Hotline
1-800-96-ABUSE or
1-800-962-2873
As a courtesy, notify
your principal that a
report is being made.
Things to include in your report
Name and address of child and parent or guardian
Child’s age, race, sex, and names of siblings
Identity of abuser, if known
Any information that you feel would be helpful in
establishing cause of injury or neglect
Child’s location at time of report
Your name, address, and telephone number, if
desired
After you report…
Department of Children and Families is
notified and provides an investigator.
Law enforcement investigates any criminal
aspects.
Child Protective Team conducts interview or
examination.
What may happen?
Family may receive intervention or
support from a counselor
Child may be removed from the home
Criminal charges may be brought
After the report is made
Comfort the child
Assure child that
people who are
investigating are there
to help
Continue to observe
child for any further
signs of abuse