It's sad to say that as a childcare provider you will undoubtedly, at one time or another, come in contact with Child Protective Services. Whether or not you are the caller, or someone is calling to have you examined; it is almost inevitable that some sort of investigation will take place if you make a profession of caring for children.

If for some reason you suspect abuse the smartest thing to do is keep a chart. This chart should be titled with the particular child's name and have a body outline on it. Mark suspicious bruises, sores, handprints, burns or any other markings in its particular body area. Keep your notes for at least one to two weeks before notifying any authorities, unless you have better reasons for calling them.

It is okay to question a child concerning abuse or neglect, but remember that neglect and sexual abuse are almost impossible to prove. Physical abuse however is easier. Be sure not to embarrass a child that you suspect is being abused. Never single out the child, never pull up his or her shirt, or grab an arm, etc. while questioning. Always allow them to offer to show you, or ask if you may see. Most young children don't lie, unless they are threatened into doing so.

Here are a few good questions to ask a child whom you suspect may be abused.

Did you hurt yourself?

If they say no- how were you hurt?

Or- how did this happen?

If you work for a larger day care make reports to your childcare director. If you run a small day care keep a chart as suggested above before reporting an incident.

Here are some things you should know and have available in case you must make a call to Child Protective Services.

Child's full name

Name of parent or guardian

Child's address

Age

Race

Sex

Names of siblings

You will be asked to give your name, the extent of the alleged abuse or neglect, your address, phone number, the identity of the abuser if known, and any other detailed information you may have. Most states will keep your identity confidential unless you sign a written waiver to have your name released. In addition most states will respond to an abuse complaint within 48 hours, and normally a case will be brought before the courts within 33 days. If for some reason it is not, the case is usually closed.

Child abuse hot line - 1-800-96YOUTH

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Wendy Kudlicka, writer, editor, web designer, and Mother of Nine. I am a survivor, if not by choice, then by necessity. Wendy has been writing all her life, but has recently examined the possibilities of writing seriously. With her extravagant style for writing accurately, she takes pleasure in working with resources that are honest in their profession.