How to Deal with Child Abuse

Few things can be more devastating than learning your child is being abused at day care, let alone abused at all. Figuring out a way to help your child cope with the emotional damage that may result can also be an extremely difficult task that many parents may be unprepared for.

Many children may have difficulty coming to their parents and disclosing the abuse that may be occurring, and this is even more true with younger children. This is why it is crucial that parents handle the situation with compassion and caution.

What Is Child Abuse?

Abuse can be both the physical or emotional harm of a child by an adult. Physical abuse can come in the form of hitting, spanking or, in more severe and disturbing cases, sexual abuse. Emotional abuse can come in the form of verbal abuse or psychological abuse.

In a past blog, we discussed warning signs for abuse at day care. If your child is being abused at a childcare facility it is crucial that you take this issue up with the law, as well as take care of your child.

How to Deal With Child Abuse

This is a very difficult situation that most parents wish would just go away, but ignoring the issue can only increase the effects it will have on your child.

As a parent or guardian, you are bound to feel guilt and anger about the situation. However, when dealing with your child directly, it is important to be sensitive and patient.

In addition to helping your son or daughter cope, oftentimes it is recommended to send him/her to a counselor or therapist. The professional can listen and help the child deal with the emotions he/she is experiencing.

The family’s goal should be to teach the child healthy ways to process distress and keep the event from producing lifelong effects.

If you or a loved one has a child that you suspect is being abused, do not hesitate to take immediate action. Raise the issue with the day care and contact an attorney immediately. Contact McAleer Law today for a free consultation with one of our expert attorneys.