If you suspect, or know, your child is suffering abuse in daycare, it’s going to be hard to keep a clear head. This is understandable, but you have to be smart about making sure you do everything right. First and foremost, you need to make sure that you document all the signs of abuse and that photos are taken of any bruises or other signs of abuse. This may mean a visit to the doctor. Documenting these incidences can be painful and is best done by professionals. It’s also best addressed sooner than later.
If you find bruises or any other damage on your child’s body that seems consistent with abuse, it needs to be addressed right away. This means that, if it’s late at night, going to the emergency room. Waiting do document the signs of daycare abuse will not help anyone, most especially the other children at the facility and their parents, who may not know what’s going on. A doctor will be able to tell if the signs are consistent with any type of abuse. If they are, you’ll know what to do. If they’re not signs of abuse, you’ll be greatly relieved. There is no reason not to visit a doctor.
If you’re sure that there is abuse going on, you should have a professional talk to your child. There have been many cases in the past where children have inadvertently been coached into saying they were abused by well-intentioned parents and counselors. Professionals know how to keep this from happening and how to get to the truth. No matter what happens, your child will likely be intimidated by this process. Make sure they know it’s not their fault, that they did nothing wrong and that you’re there for them.
If you wish to pursue a civil suit against the daycare provider for daycare abuse or daycare negligence, talk to an attorney. There are law firms that specialize in this work who can help you to make sure that you’re not left without remedies for the pain and suffering, as well as the financial damage, that’s been visited upon you and your child. These cases will sometimes go to court, sometimes not, if there’s a settlement offered. In any case, law enforcement, medical professionals and legal counsel are what you need to combat these situations effectively, quickly and decisively.