Do you know what child abuse looks like?

Watch for these 10 warning signs-all are common in children who
are being physically or sexually abused, and evidence of any one
of them is enough to take action. "It only takes one phone call to
get a child the help he needs, and that call can literally save a
child's life."

1. Unexplained injuries
2. Changes in behavior
3. Regressive behaviors
4. Fear of going home
5. Changes in eating
6. Sleeping changes
7. Changes in school performance and attendance
8. Lack of personal care or hygiene
9. Risk-taking behaviors
10. Inappropriate sexual behaviors



How you can help children in your neighborhood

You can make a difference by supporting your local Child Advocacy
Center (CAC). CAC's are everywhere: The National Children's
Alliance recognizes 432 accredited CAC's (plus 230 additional
Associates programs, of which the Schoharie County CAART
Center is one) across the United States, and they serve more
than 171,000 children yearly. Visit nca-online.org to find a CAC
near you, then choose a way to get involved.

  • DONATE YOUR KIDS' CLOTHES AND TOYS. Abused
    children who come into the centers sometimes do not
    return home for safety reasons, and their clothes have to
    be kept for evidence.
  • VOLUNTEER YOUR TIME
  • GIVE MONEY. CAC's spend approximately $2,000 per
    abuse investigation. State governments provide some
    funding for CAC's: however, private donations are key.
  • WRITE YOUR LEGISLATURE. Ask representatives to
    introduce legislation for CAC funding. This is a powerful
    way to help.
What You Can Do