State Representative Amy Grant (il) | Representative Amy L. Grant (R) 47th District
State Representative Amy Grant (il) | Representative Amy L. Grant (R) 47th District
Today marks the conclusion of National Child Abuse and Prevention Month, urging individuals to educate themselves on the telltale signs of child abuse. According to a report, "The average child tells seven adults they are being abused before a report is formally made." Shockingly, "up to 70% of child abuse cases go unreported, putting countless innocent children at risk."
Individuals are encouraged to be vigilant and aware of the following 10 signs of child abuse:
1) Unexplained Injuries
2) Changes in Behavior
3) Returning to Earlier Behaviors
4) Fear of Going Home
5) Changes in Eating
6) Changes in Sleeping
7) Changes in School Performance and Attendance
8) Lack of Personal Care and Hygiene
9) Risk-Taking Behaviors
10) Inappropriate Sexual Behaviors
If there is any suspicion that a child is being harmed or is at risk of harm due to abuse or neglect, immediate action is crucial. Individuals are advised to contact 911 or the 24-hour Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-25-ABUSE (1-800-252-2873) without delay. For non-emergency situations, reporting suspected child abuse or neglect can be done through the Online Reporting System at https://dcfsonlinereporting.dcfs.illinois.gov/.
Alerts Sign-up