Wheaton, IL – State Representative Amy Grant (R-Wheaton) is urging the community to come together in opposition to all forms of child abuse and neglect in recognition of April as National Child Abuse Prevention Month. The recognition month is dedicated to raising awareness about the serious issue of child abuse, which encompasses sexual, physical, and emotional maltreatment, as well as severe neglect.
“Child abuse is a tragic violation of the innocent and the vulnerable,” said Rep. Grant. “It’s essential that as a community, we understand the signs of abuse, which can range from sudden changes in behavior to unexplained injuries, to effectively keep our children safe.”
Rep. Grant emphasizes the importance of community and government working hand in hand to provide a safe environment for all children. “I encourage everyone to learn the signs of Child Abuse and reminder that if you see something, say something” she stated.
To effectively combat child abuse, it’s crucial to recognize the warning signs. Here are 10 red flags that may indicate a child is suffering from abuse:
- Unexplained Injuries: Visible signs of physical abuse, such as bruises, cuts, or burns, particularly if they appear frequently or in patterns.
- Changes in Behavior: Sudden shifts in mood or demeanor, including increased aggression, withdrawal, or anxiety.
- Returning to Earlier Behaviors: Reverting to behaviors typical of younger children, like bedwetting or thumb-sucking, as a coping mechanism.
- Fear of Going Home: Reluctance or fear of returning home, which may indicate an unsafe environment.
- Changes in Eating: Dramatic weight fluctuations, binge eating, or hoarding food can signal emotional distress or neglect.
- Changes in Sleeping: Persistent nightmares, insomnia, or excessive sleeping may be signs of trauma.
- Changes in School Performance and Attendance: A sudden decline in academic performance or frequent absences could indicate a troubled home life.
- Lack of Personal Care and Hygiene: Consistently appearing dirty or unkempt, wearing ill-fitting or inappropriate clothing, or displaying poor hygiene.
- Risk-Taking Behaviors: Engaging in dangerous activities, self-harm, or substance abuse as a means to cope with or escape from abuse.
- Inappropriate Sexual Behaviors: Displaying knowledge or interest in sexual activities beyond their age or engaging in sexually explicit behaviors.
If you suspect a child has been harmed or is at risk of being harmed by abuse or neglect, do not hesitate to call 911 or the 24-hour Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-25-ABUSE (1-800-252-2873). In non-emergency situations, you can report suspected child abuse or neglect using the Online Reporting System at https://dcfsonlinereporting.dcfs.illinois.gov/
For more information on Child Abuse and Prevention initiatives, please contact Rep. Grant’s office at 331-218-4182.
State Representative Amy Grant, is currently in her 3rd term as State Representative in the General Assembly. The 47th district is made up of several communities in DuPage County, including Naperville, Warrenville, Glen Ellyn, Wheaton, Lisle, Carol Stream, Bartlett, West Chicago, Winfield, and Wayne.