Chapter 11 Promoting Children’s Safety Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. 217 Neglect When children are not given the basic needs of life, they suffer from neglect. Neglect takes many forms. A neglected child may be deprived of proper food, medical and dental care, shelter, and/or clothing. Children who have been unsupervised may also be neglected. Neglect may or may not be intentional on the part of the abuser, but the potential for harm is possible. Children who wear clothing that is too small or dirty may be neglected. Neglected children may also wear clothes that are inappropriate for the weather. They may lack warm coats, gloves, or hats for the winter. Children who are poorly groomed may also be neglected. Other signs of neglect may appear in a child’s health. Neglect may result in children who are too thin or malnourished. These children may ask to take food home. Constant fatigue, illness, or poor dental care may be other signs of neglect. These children may have a bad odor. This may be due to a lack of bathing. Wearing dirty clothes could also contribute to bad odor. Alert teachers should observe for signs of neglect. They must be sensitive to different child- rearing practices as well as cultural expectations and priorities. Signs of possible neglect include • the child often arrives early or is picked up late • the child wears inappropriate or unclean clothing • the child seems always hungry • medical needs are unmet • poor hygiene often results in odor • the child appears fatigued or falls asleep • the child may have physical injuries or may not be treated for illness Derek is a neglected child. He often arrives early or is picked up late. His teacher observed that he appeared small for his age. After observing him for several more months, she noted developmental lags. He appeared to be lagging behind many of his same-age peers. Often he would ask when snack or lunch would be served. During cooking activities, he would try to eat or take food. He also complained of being hungry. Derek lacked proper nutrition. As a result, he was constantly fatigued and sometimes fell asleep. Observing these signs, Derek’s teachers suspected neglect. They compared information and shared their concerns. As child care teachers, they knew they were required to report suspected child abuse. They knew Derek would never reach his full potential without proper nutrition. Emotional Abuse Emotional abuse is abuse of a child’s self- concept through words or actions. Children lose self-esteem due to emotional abuse. Excessive or inappropriate demands may be made on the children by parents or guardians. This can cause emotional harm to children. Emotional abuse is the result of insuffi cient love, guidance, and/or support from parents or guardians. Children who are emotionally abused may repeat certain behaviors over several months. Look for the following signs: • refusal to talk • unusual or unpredictable behavior • rare smiling or laughter • excessive clinging or crying • withdrawn or destructive behavior • lacks attachment to parent or caregiver • poor motor coordination for age • fear of adults Learn More About... Learn More About... Informing Staff About Toxic Substances The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires employers to keep early childhood teachers and care providers informed about the presence and use of any toxic materials in use in a facility. This includes ingredients in art materials and sanitizing products. Employers can get the latest information about such products from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).