Title: Describe signs and symptoms of child abuse and neglect and the role of a mandated reporter.
Course: Early Childhood, Education, and Services I (19153-I) > Section: Providing a Positive, Safe, and Healthy Learning Environment

Description should include

- definition of abuse and neglect
- signs and symptoms of abuse and neglect (e.g., emotional, verbal, physical or sexual abuse, malnutrition, and medical neglect)
- definition of a mandated reporter
- state regulations and procedures for reporting suspected child abuse or neglect
- school policy procedures (chain of command)
- role of the mandated reporter in child advocacy
- privacy laws related to mandated reporting.

Process/Skill Questions:

Thinking

- What is child advocacy and how can caregivers engage in it?
- What are some ethical issues for childcare professionals regarding the determination and reporting of child abuse or neglect?
- What are some potential consequences of reporting or failing to report suspected cases?
- What criteria should be used to decide if symptoms displayed by a child might be the result of abuse or neglect?
- Why is confidentiality important? What type of information must be kept confidential?
- How can protection education help to promote a safe environment that protects children from abuse and neglect?

Communication

- How can the policies and procedures regarding reporting of suspected child abuse and neglect be communicated to parents, children, and the community?
- How might social, cultural, or ethnic differences in the client population influence the communication?

Leadership

- What should be done to help prevent child abuse and neglect in the community?
- What skills and knowledge are needed to recognize possible cases of child abuse and neglect?

Management

- What strategies might be effective in preventing cases of child abuse and neglect?
- What are the local regulations and procedures for reporting suspected child abuse and neglect? Who are the designated authorities?
- What resources are available for adults and children involved in cases of child abuse and neglect?

Teacher Resources:

- CASA Court Appointed Special Advocates for Children
- Child Protective Services (CPS)