Child abuse is doing  something or failing to do something that harms or puts a child at risk of harm.It is important to know the signs of child abuse. Most abusers are family members which even makes it more difficult to come to terms with. Sometimes it can be difficult to identify the signs of child abuse. However as parents you know your child better than anybody else. Try to  put the picture together and trust your instincts .

If your child can communicate well, ask her  questions why he doesnt want to go to daycare or baby sitter. If the child cant communicate well, you have to look out for signs that indicate that something is not well. Emotional abuse may be more difficult to detect .

Signs of  child abuse

Physical abuse

• crying or putting up a fight when its time to go to daycare
• sudden changes in behavior or performance at daycare
• comes home with unexplained bruises, abrasions, broken bones , bites, black eye,  bite marks or other injuries

Emotional abuse

• becomes less talkative or stop communicating all together or signs of speech disorder such as stuttering
• behavioral problems such as shunning parent’s affection or becoming to clingy
• complain of headaches or stomaches with no medical causes . The child may lose appetite
• exhibit fearful behaviors like trouble sleeping or nightmare
• acts inappropriately adult such as being overly protective of children

Sexual abuse

• pain, itching or bleeding at the genital area
• have difficulty sitting or walking due to genital or anal pain
• becomes secretive or want to be alone most of the time
• exhibit sexual knowledge , behavior or curiosity beyond his age

If you have concerns about abuse, you need to act fast. The sooner you address the problem , the better for the child. Parenting can be frustrating. If you think you are or may become abusive towards your child, seek help.  Reach out to your family, friends or local family support center or community mental health agency.