by Shauna Kirk

Created on: January 24, 2007   Last Updated: April 23, 2007

This information is provided assuming that your child does not have any life threatening injuries, otherwise, you should take your child to the nearest emergency room.

If your child comes to you with a report of abuse, immediately get down to their level. Perhaps you can both sit down on the floor. This will help you remain calm and it will allow the child to feel less intimidated in an already awkward situation. Remember that sometimes, a report of abuse could be a passing remark of something for which the child has no idea that the incident was wrong and considered a form of abuse.

In order to minimize the emotional damage that can occur, it is important to remain calm at all times. Listen to the child, it is not as important to begin questioning the child at this time. Let the child know that you love him or her and explain that what happened to him or her was not appropriate (in an age level that he/she can understand). Explain to the child that you don't have the answers to everything, but there are people who know a little more about somethings than you. Advise them that you will have to seek the guidance of those people so that together, you and the child can do what is right. Explain to the child that he or she may have to tell a stranger what happened, but it will be okay, because you will always be close by to provide a hug when needed and that no matter what happens, they will be safe.

After you are sure that the child understands what you have explained to them, make sure you yourself remain calm. The next step is to take what ever immediate actions are necessary to assure that the child is safe from the person who committed such abuse. You must always remain calm in your child's presence and display an in-control attitude.

When you are absolutely, positively, without any doubts, certain that the child is safe, call your local department of Social Services. The phone number for the local department of Social Services can be found in the phone book listed under the county for which you reside. If you are having difficulty locating the number, dial information and tell the operator that you need the number to the department of Social Services so that you can report child abuse. This will assist the operator in provided you with the correct number.

The Social Workers are well trained in these instances and will be a resource in a time most needed. They are trained to interview children and acquire the necessary information to assist in determining the extent of the abuse. The department of Social Services will contact all of the proper authorities. They will make arrangements or advise you to make arrangements with local counseling centers and physicians who specialize with the diagnosis and treatment of child abuse incidences.

Remember it is not the actual abuse itself that will have the longest standing effect on the child as it is the way the knowledge of the abuse is handled. Remain calm, promote an "in-control" attitude, love the child and remember that the most important issue should always be for you to provide the child with a loving, safe home. Physical scars heal much quicker than emotional scars.

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