Preventing and Reporting Child Abuse and Neglect in Maryland - post

Child care providers #play a very important role in keeping children #safe. In Maryland, providers are trusted adults who see children every day. This means you may notice signs of #abuse or #neglect before others do. Knowing how to prevent abuse and how to report concerns is part of your job—and it can protect a child’s life.

This article explains what child abuse and neglect are, how to prevent them, and what Maryland law requires you to do if you suspect a child is being harmed. The information is written in clear, simple #language to help all providers feel confident and prepared.

What Is Child Abuse and Neglect?

Child abuse and neglect happen when a child is harmed or not properly cared for by a #parent or caregiver.

Child abuse means someone hurts a child on purpose.
Child neglect means a child’s basic needs are not met.

There are several types you should know about:

• Physical abuse: Hitting, shaking, burning, or causing injury

• Emotional abuse: Yelling, threatening, or making a child feel worthless

• Sexual abuse: Any sexual contact or behavior with a child

• Neglect: Not providing enough food, clothing, shelter, medical care, or supervision

Abuse and neglect can happen to children of #all-ages, backgrounds, and family types. Knowing the signs is the first step in prevention. Resources like this ChildCareEd handout can help:
👉 Signs of Abuse and Neglect: Mixed Ages

Why Prevention Matters in Child Care

Preventing abuse and neglect helps children feel safe, secure, and ready to #learn. When children feel safe, they are more likely to grow #healthy and strong.

Child care programs can help prevent abuse by:

• Creating safe and caring environments

• Teaching children about body #safety and feelings

• Building trusting relationships with families

• Watching for #early warning signs

Strong prevention practices protect children and providers. They also support your program’s reputation and compliance with Maryland regulations.

How Child Care Providers Can Help Prevent Abuse

Prevention starts with daily actions. Small steps can make a big difference.

You can help prevent abuse by:

• Always following supervision rules

• Using positive guidance, not harsh discipline

• Keeping clear boundaries with children

• Making sure #classrooms are safe and well organized

• Reporting safety concerns right away

Training is also key. Ongoing education helps providers stay informed and confident. These ChildCareEd courses are especially helpful:

• Child Abuse and Neglect: Signs and Reporting
  
  

• Safe and Sound: Creating Healthy Environments for Every Child
  
  

Learning together as a team builds a #culture of safety. This is part of being a strong, professional provider. #ChildSafety #EarlyChildhoodEducation

What Are the Signs of Abuse and Neglect?

Signs are not always clear. One sign alone does not always mean abuse, but patterns are important.

Possible physical signs include:

• Bruises, #burns, or injuries with no clear reason

• Frequent injuries

• Poor hygiene or clothing that does not fit the weather

Possible behavior signs include:

• Fear of adults or going home

• Extreme sadness, anger, or withdrawal

• Aggressive behavior

• Sudden changes in behavior

You may also notice signs in how a parent or caregiver acts, such as ignoring the child’s needs or using harsh punishment.

This ChildCareEd resource is helpful for reviewing signs across ages:
👉 Abuse and Neglect: Signs and Symptoms (All Ages)

Are Child Care Providers Mandated Reporters in Maryland?

Yes. In Maryland, child care providers are mandated reporters. This means you are required by law to report suspected child abuse or neglect.

You do not need proof. You only need a reasonable suspicion.

Important things to remember:

• You must report immediately

• You should not investigate on your own

• You cannot be punished for making a good-faith report

• Reports are confidential

Failing to report can #lead to legal consequences and puts children at risk.

How Do You Report Child Abuse or Neglect in Maryland?

If you suspect abuse or neglect, act right away.

Follow these steps:

1. Call Child Protective Services (CPS) in the local department of social services

   • For emergencies, call 911

2. Share clear facts

   • What you saw or heard

   • Dates, times, and concerns

3. Follow your program’s reporting policy

4. Document the report according to program rules

You do not need to tell the family you made a report. Your role is to protect the child, not to decide guilt.

Why Ongoing Training Is So Important

Training keeps information fresh and helps providers feel confident. It also helps programs meet licensing and professional #development requirements.

For providers working with young children, this course is a great option:

• CDA: Infants and Toddlers – Abuse and Neglect Reporting Requisites
  
  

You can also learn more by reading this related ChildCareEd article:
👉 Understanding the Importance of Child Abuse and Neglect Training

Education helps protect children, families, and you. #MandatedReporter #MarylandChildCare

Stay Connected and Keep Learning

ChildCareEd supports child care professionals every step of the way. Following ChildCareEd on social media is a great way to get tips, reminders, and training updates.

👉 Follow ChildCareEd on Instagram for helpful videos and resources:

You can also connect on Facebook, Pinterest, TikTok, and X to stay informed and inspired. #ChildCareTraining

Final Thoughts

Preventing and reporting child abuse and neglect is one of the most important responsibilities of a child care provider in Maryland. By staying alert, following the law, and continuing your education, you help create safe places where children can grow and thrive.

Every report can make a difference. Every #safe-environment matters.