Child Protection Policies in Family Day Care

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary commitment of the Family Day Care Service?

To provide a child safe environment.

Which of the following are considered forms of child abuse? (Select all that apply)

Neglect (correct)

Physical abuse (correct)

Child sexual abuse (correct)

Grooming (correct)

All staff members are responsible for identifying signs of child abuse.

True

Mandatory reporting is a requirement for which of the following professionals? (Select all that apply)

Teachers Signup and view all the answers

What does 'duty of care' mean in the context of child protection?

The responsibility to protect children in care from harm. Signup and view all the answers

A Working With Children Check (WWCC) is mandatory for all employees working with ______.

children Signup and view all the answers

Failure to disclose suspected child abuse can result in a criminal offense.

True Signup and view all the answers

What should FDC educators do if they suspect child abuse?

Consult with a colleague Signup and view all the answers

The Family Day Care Service adheres to the ___ Child Safe Standards.

Victorian Signup and view all the answers

What must be done when an FDC educator has concerns about a child's safety?

Record their concerns accurately and report them. Signup and view all the answers

Which action is NOT part of the Four Critical Actions for responding to child abuse concerns?

Conducting an investigation Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following are examples of self-stimulatory behaviours in infants or toddlers? (Select all that apply)

Head banging Signup and view all the answers

What is an indicator of neglect in a child?

Appearing consistently dirty and unwashed Signup and view all the answers

Excessive crying is a behavioural indicator of neglect in infants or toddlers.

True Signup and view all the answers

What can neglect lead to in a child's development?

Significant delays in physical and emotional development Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a physical indicator of family violence?

Speech disorders Signup and view all the answers

What encompasses problem sexual behaviour in children under the age of 10?

Concerning sexual behaviour Signup and view all the answers

What is the consequence of prolonged exposure to family violence in children?

Increased risk of physical, psychological, and emotional harm Signup and view all the answers

Neglect includes a failure to provide the child with adequate standard of ______.

nutrition Signup and view all the answers

What are two forms of violent behaviour that can be indicators of family violence in children?

Violent/aggressive behaviour and depression Signup and view all the answers

Child Protection will require accurate information including the child's ______

personal details Signup and view all the answers

What are indicators of harm?

The reason for believing that the injury or behavior is the result of abuse or neglect. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following should NOT be done when receiving a disclosure of harm?

Confront the perpetrator Signup and view all the answers

It is acceptable to promise a child that you will not tell anyone else after they disclose harm.

False Signup and view all the answers

What is the aim of documenting a disclosure of harm?

To accurately capture the details of what happened, including time, date, and the disclosures made. Signup and view all the answers

What does the Reportable Conduct Scheme aim to achieve?

It ensures that the Commission for Children and Young People is aware of allegations of employee misconduct involving children. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a physical indicator of physical child abuse?

Crying excessively Signup and view all the answers

What is grooming in the context of child abuse?

When a person engages in predatory conduct to prepare a child for sexual activity later. Signup and view all the answers

Children who are vulnerable, isolated, and/or have a disability are at lower risk of sexual abuse.

False Signup and view all the answers

What are the reporting responsibilities of an adult who believes a sexual offense has been committed against a child under 16?

They must report to Victoria Police if they reasonably believe a sexual offense has occurred. Signup and view all the answers

What actions must FDC educators take when documenting concerns about a child's safety?

They must record their concerns non-judgmentally and accurately, including observations and details of discussions with parents. Signup and view all the answers

Under what circumstances should a FDC educator report concerns to DFFH Child Protection instead of calling the police?

When they believe a child is in need of protection due to abuse or at risk of harm impacting their safety or development. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the ChildFIRST referral for FDC educators?

It ensures that children with significant wellbeing concerns receive appropriate support and intervention. Signup and view all the answers

What must FDC educators do if they are uncertain about reporting a concern?

They should discuss their uncertainty with the approved provider or responsible person. Signup and view all the answers

What critical information must be gathered when a child protection report is being made?

Accurate details about the child's personal information, indicators of harm, a description of the alleged abuse, and safety assessments are critical. Signup and view all the answers

What initial actions should an adult take when a child discloses abuse?

The adult should give full attention to the child, remain calm, and reassure them that it is right to tell. Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to document the date of the report and the notifier's information?

Documenting the date of the report and notifier's information provides a clear record of when the disclosure occurred and establishes accountability. Signup and view all the answers

What constitutes physical child abuse?

Physical child abuse is the non-accidental infliction of physical injury or harm to a child. Signup and view all the answers

What does 'indicators of harm' refer to in the context of child protection?

Indicators of harm refer to signs or evidence suggesting that a child's injury or behavior results from abuse or neglect. Signup and view all the answers

Identify two physical indicators of child abuse visible on a child's body.

Bruises or welts on facial areas and burns from boiling water or flames. Signup and view all the answers

How can a child’s explanation of an injury serve as an indicator of abuse?

If a child's explanation contradicts the nature of the injury, it may indicate abuse may have occurred. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of a safety assessment in a child protection context?

The purpose of a safety assessment is to evaluate any immediate danger to the child or children involved. Signup and view all the answers

How should a child be allowed to express their disclosure of harm?

The child should be encouraged to use their own words and disclose only what they feel comfortable sharing. Signup and view all the answers

What self-stimulatory behavior might an infant exhibit if they are experiencing abuse?

Rocking or head banging can be indicative of abuse or trauma. Signup and view all the answers

In what way does the cultural background of a child play a role in child protection cases?

Understanding the child's cultural characteristics may assist in providing appropriate care and support during the intervention. Signup and view all the answers

What types of burns are considered indicators of physical child abuse?

Burns that show the shape of the object used, such as irons or cigarettes. Signup and view all the answers

Describe how a caregiver's response might indicate neglect in a child.

An unresponsive or impatient caregiver can signal neglect in terms of emotional and physical care. Signup and view all the answers

Why is it crucial for an adult not to make promises that cannot be kept when a child discloses harm?

Making unkeepable promises can lead to further mistrust and hinder the child's willingness to seek help in the future. Signup and view all the answers

What are two signs of physical neglect reflected in a child's physical state?

Listlessness and emaciation are signs of physical neglect. Signup and view all the answers

List two psychological indicators in infants that may suggest abuse.

Excessive crying or not crying at all can be psychological indicators of abuse. Signup and view all the answers

What types of rewards might young people receive in exchange for sexual activities?

Young people might receive food, accommodation, drugs, alcohol, gifts, money, or affection. Signup and view all the answers

What specific groups of children are at a higher risk of sexual abuse?

Children who are vulnerable, isolated, or have a disability are at a higher risk of sexual abuse. Signup and view all the answers

List two physical indicators of child sexual abuse.

Injury to the genital or rectal area and presence of sexually transmitted infections. Signup and view all the answers

What behaviors might indicate that a young child is a victim of sexual abuse?

Persistent age-inappropriate sexual activity and wariness or fear of a parent or guardian. Signup and view all the answers

What are some signs that a child may have experienced discomfort during bodily functions due to abuse?

Discomfort in urinating or defecating, and complaints of headaches or stomach pains without physiological basis. Signup and view all the answers

How might excessive crying or lack of response in infants indicate sexual abuse?

Excessive crying or failure to cry at all may reflect emotional distress due to abuse. Signup and view all the answers

How can clothing choices indicate signs of child sexual abuse?

Wearing clothes unsuitable for weather conditions to hide injuries may suggest abuse. Signup and view all the answers

What role does a child's fear of specific adults play in identifying potential sexual abuse?

A child's unusual fear of certain adults may indicate they are experiencing or have experienced abuse. Signup and view all the answers

What defines sexually abusive behaviour in children aged 10 years or older but under 15 years?

It is defined as using power or authority to engage another party in unwanted sexual activity where consent cannot be given. Signup and view all the answers

What is the maximum age difference for consent to sexual activity among peers aged 12-15 under Victorian Law?

The maximum age difference is two years. Signup and view all the answers

What must be considered to determine if a child can legally consent to sexual activity?

The child must have the capacity to understand the context and possible consequences of the act. Signup and view all the answers

What are the four critical actions needed if inappropriate sexual behaviour by a child is suspected?

The actions include witnessing the incident, receiving a disclosure, forming a reasonable suspicion, and reporting to authorities. Signup and view all the answers

What behaviours may indicate that a child engaging in sexually abusive behaviour could also be a victim of abuse?

Engaging in sexually abusive behaviour may indicate the child is themselves a victim of sexual abuse by others. Signup and view all the answers

What legal implications can arise from sexually abusive behaviour exhibited by a child?

Such behaviour may amount to a sexual offence under the Crimes Act 1958, including acts like sexual assault. Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to carefully assess children's sexual behaviours?

It is important to determine whether the behaviour constitutes a sexual offence or reflects underlying abuse. Signup and view all the answers

In what situations might a child’s inappropriate sexual behaviour require therapeutic treatment?

Therapeutic treatment may be necessary if the behaviour is concerning and indicates possible trauma or abuse. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Child Protection Policy Overview

This policy is for all Family Day Care (FDC) staff, coordinators, educators, assistants, children, families, and visitors.
The FDC Service aims to provide a child-safe environment where children feel respected, valued, and encouraged to reach their full potential, while also being committed to protecting children from all types of abuse and neglect.
This policy outlines procedures for identifying and reporting suspected child abuse, including the roles and responsibilities of mandatory reporters, and the importance of documenting disclosures.

Understanding Child Abuse

Child abuse refers to any action towards a child or young person that harms or puts at risk their physical, psychological, or emotional health or development. This can be a single incident or a series of incidents over time.
There are different forms of child abuse:
- Physical abuse
- Child sexual abuse
- Grooming
- Emotional child abuse
- Neglect
- Family violence
- Children exhibiting inappropriate sexual behaviour

Duty of Care

It is the FDC service's duty to take reasonable steps to protect children from injury that is reasonably foreseeable.
This includes recognizing that all staff members are responsible for the safety of children and responding to concerns in a timely and child-focused manner.
Staff must be trained on all child protection protocols, and must be able to identify signs of abuse and report any suspicious behavior.

Mandatory Reporting

Mandatory reporting is the legal requirement for designated professionals to make a report to Child Protection and/or Victoria Police if they have a reasonable belief that a child has been or is at risk of significant harm. This includes physical or sexual abuse situations where the child’s parents have not protected or are unlikely to protect them from that abuse.
Mandatory reporters in Victoria include:
- Registered medical practitioners
- Nurses
- Victorian police officers
- Registered teachers and school principals
- Out-of-home care workers (excluding voluntary foster and kinship carers)
- Early childhood workers
- Youth justice workers
- Registered psychologists
- School counsellors
- People in religious ministry

Working With Children Check

A Working With Children Check (WWCC) is mandatory for all employees working or volunteering with children within Education and Care Services.
This check must be completed before an employee begins working with children, and organizations must be notified in writing if an employee's WWCC is suspended or revoked.

Child Safe Standards and Reportable Conduct Scheme

The FDC Service is committed to keeping children and young people safe and complies with the 11 Child Safe Standards and Principles and the Reportable Conduct Scheme.
All staff must be familiar with these standards and their respective policies.

Reporting Concerns About a Child

FDC educators and staff who have significant concerns for the wellbeing of a child (or unborn child) may report these concerns to DFFH Child Protection or refer the matter to ChildFIRST.

Forming a Reasonable Belief or Reasonable Grounds

A reasonable belief that a child is in need of protection, or their safety or wellbeing is at risk, can be formed through disclosures, observations, or other information. Proof is not required to support your claim.

Taking Action When Concerns Arise

When FDC educators have concerns about the safety of a child, they will:
- Record their concerns in a non-judgmental and accurate manner
- Record their observations and details of any discussions with a parent
- Avoid trying to conduct their own investigation
Child Protection requires accurate information when a report is made, which may include:
- The child's personal details
- Indicators of harm
- Descriptions of alleged abuse
- Safety assessments
- Other services involved
- Family information
- Cultural characteristics
- Notifier Information
- Date of report and signature

Responding to a Child's Disclosure

When a child discloses that they have been abused, it is an opportunity for an adult to provide immediate support and comfort and to assist in protecting the child from the abuse.
When receiving a disclosure of harm, a FDC educator will:
- Give the child their full attention
- Remain calm and not display expressions of panic or shock
- Reassure the child they are safe and that it was right to tell
- Listen to the child and allow them to take their time
- Accept that the child might not disclose everything and recognize their bravery for talking about something difficult
- Let the child use their own words
- Avoid making promises that cannot be kept

Reporting a Potential Child Abuse Case

FDC educators must take immediate action relating to concerns about potential child abuse.
In the case of an emergency, staff should contact Emergency Services on 000.
In cases of suspected sexual abuse, any adult must report to Victoria Police if they reasonably believe that a sexual offence has been committed by an adult against a child under the age of 16.
A mandatory reporter must make a report to DHHS Child Protection if they have a reasonable belief that a child is:
- In need of protection due to child abuse
- At risk of being harmed (or has been harmed) and the harm has, or is likely to have an impact on the child's safety, stability or development.
FDC Services must contact their local DFFH Child Protection intake provider to report concerns.
- Northern Division intake: 1300 664 977
- South Division Intake: 1300 655 795
- East Division intake: 1300 360 391
- West Division intake- metropolitan: 1300 664 977
- West Division intake- rural and regional: 1800 075 599
If a FDC educator has a concern about the safety of a child, they should discuss their concerns with the approved provider or responsible person.
If unsure whether to report to DFFH Child Protection or Victoria Police or make a referral to ChildFIRST, discuss with the approved provider or responsible person.

The Four Critical Actions for Early Childhood Services

When responding to incidents, disclosures, or suspicions of child abuse, FDC educators must follow the four critical actions:
- Responding to an emergency
- Reporting to authorities
- Contacting parents or carers
- Providing ongoing support

Implementing the Policy

THE APPROVED PROVIDER/NOMINATED SUPERVISOR WILL ENSURE:*
All staff members have received adequate training on child protection requirements.
The recruitment process for all educators, staff, and volunteers is rigorous and includes pre-employment screening, reference checks.
All employees have current Working With Children Checks.
All employees are provided with a copy of the current Child Protection, Child Safe Environment, and Reportable Conduct Scheme policies.
All employees are made aware of their mandatory reporting obligations and their duty of care obligations, particularly in scenarios where they have a reasonable belief that a child has suffered or is likely to suffer significant harm.
Staff are trained to identify signs of child abuse and know what to do in the event of suspicious behavior.
Training and development are provided for all educators, staff, and volunteers in child protection on an annual basis.
Staff documentation of any suspected abuse or neglect is accurate and includes the required details to assist the authorities with any investigation.
Records of abuse or suspected abuse are kept in line with the Privacy and Confidentiality Policy.
The FDC Service adheres to the Reportable Conduct Scheme and reports any allegations of 'reportable conduct'.
All staff members understand their legal obligations to report or take action in relation to suspected child abuse.
FDC EDUCATORS*/EDUCATOR ASSISTANTS** WILL:
Promote the welfare, safety, and wellbeing of children at the FDC Service at all times.
Ensure children feel safe and supported.
Understand their obligations as mandatory reporters and duty of care requirements.
Participate in annual child protection training and any relevant professional training.
Be able to identify signs of child abuse.
Follow the Four Critical Actions.
Respect what a child discloses, taking their concerns seriously, and following up through appropriate channels.
Refer families to other agencies when appropriate.
Allow children to be part of decision-making processes where appropriate.
Contribute to accurate recording of all incidents, conversations, and observations for the authorities to assist with any investigation.
Understand that allegations of abuse against them are treated the same way as allegations of abuse against other people.
Not investigate suspicion of abuse or neglect but collect only enough information to substantiate concerns and pass on to the Child Protection Helpline or appropriate authority.
Understand their legal obligations to report or take action in relation to suspected child abuse according to the Reportable Conduct Scheme.
Share information with other professionals working with children as part of the information sharing and family violence reform schemes.
Provide ongoing monitoring and follow-up for children's health and wellbeing.

Reporting Child Abuse

When a child discloses abuse, do not promise to keep it a secret.
Tell the child they did the right thing by revealing the abuse and that you will take steps to protect them and stop the abuse.
Explain to the child what you plan to do next.
Only ask enough questions to confirm the need for a report. Probing questions can cause distress and interfere with investigations.
Do not try to investigate or mediate the situation yourself.
Do not confront the potential perpetrator.
Document the disclosure as soon as possible:
- Record the time, date and place of the disclosure.
- Write down word for word what happened and was said, including your own actions.
- Note the date of the report and your signature.
Reports to the DFFH Child Protection or Child FIRST should be confidential. Do not inform the suspected perpetrator.
Reporters are protected from retribution for making or proposing to make a report under amendments to the Children Youth and Families Act 2005 and Crimes Act 1958 effective April 2021.
- Your identity is protected by law except in certain circumstances.
- Reports made in good faith are exempt from the Freedom of Information Act 1989.

Breach of Child Protection Policy

A breach of child protection policy occurs when a staff member:
- Does something a reasonable person in their position wouldn't do in a given situation.
- Fails to do something a reasonable person in their position would do in a given situation.
- Acts or fails to act in a way that causes harm to someone they owe a duty of care.

Managing Breach in Child Protection Policy

Management will investigate breaches in a fair and supportive manner:
- They will discuss the breach with everyone involved and explain the process.
- The staff member will be given a chance to explain their side of the story.
- The details of the breach will be documented, including all parties' perspectives.
- The outcome will be recorded clearly and without bias.
- The matter will be kept confidential.
- A decision will be made based on all the evidence.

Outcome of a Breach in Child Protection Policy

The outcome of a breach may include:
- Emphasizing relevant parts of the child protection policy and procedure.
- Providing closer supervision.
- Offering further education and training.
- Facilitating mediation between involved parties (if appropriate).
- Initiating disciplinary procedures if necessary.
- Reviewing and updating existing policies and procedures.

Reportable Conduct Scheme

The Reportable Conduct Scheme ensures the Commission for Children and Young People (CCYP) is informed about allegations of misconduct involving children in organizations including approved education and care services and children's services.

Educating Children About Protective Behavior

The program at the FDC Service will educate children:
- About acceptable and unacceptable behavior and appropriate and inappropriate contact at an age-appropriate level.
- About their right to feel safe at all times.
- To say "no" to anything that makes them feel unsafe or uncomfortable.
- To use their own knowledge and understanding to feel safe.
- To identify feelings that make them feel unsafe.
- The difference between "good" and "bad" secrets.
- That there is no secret or story that can't be shared with someone they trust.
- That educators are available for them if they have any concerns.
- To tell educators about any suspicious activities or people.
- To recognize and express their feelings verbally and non-verbally.
- That they can choose to change the way they are feeling.

Indicators of Abuse and Neglect

General Indicators of abuse and neglect:
- Marked delay between injury and seeking medical attention.
- History of injury.
- The child indicates that their injury did not occur as stated.
- The child tells you that someone has hurt them.
- The child tells you about someone they know who has been hurt.
- Someone tells you the child may have been abused.

Physical Abuse

Physical child abuse is the non-accidental infliction of physical injury or harm to a child.
Examples of physical abuse:
- Beating, shaking, or burning.
- Assault, including female genital mutilation.

Physical Indicators of Physical Child Abuse

Physical indicators of physical abuse:
- Evidence of physical injury unlikely to be the result of an accident.
- Bruises or welts on facial areas and other parts of the body (back, bottom, legs, arms, and inner thighs).
- Burns from boiling water, oil, or flames, or burns showing the shape of the object used (iron, grill, cigarette).
- Fractures of the skull, jaw, nose, and limbs, especially if not consistent with the explanation or the child's age.
- Cuts and grazes on the mouth, lips, gums, eye area, ears, and external genitalia.
- Bald patches where hair has been pulled out.
- Multiple injuries, old and new.
- Effects of poisoning.
- Internal injuries.

Behavioral Indicators of Physical Child Abuse

Behavioral indicators of physical child abuse in infants or toddlers:
- Self-stimulatory behaviors (rocking, head banging).
- Excessive crying or no crying at all.
- Listlessness, immobility, emaciation, or paleness.
- Significant delays in gross motor development and coordination.
- Unresponsive or impatient parents/carers to the child's cues and unreceptive to support.
Behavioral indicators in all children, including infants and toddlers:
- Disclosure of physical abuse (by the child, friend, or family member).
- Inconsistent or unlikely explanations for injuries.
- Wearing clothes unsuitable for the weather to hide injuries.
- Wariness or fear of parents, carers, or guardians and reluctance to go home.
- Unusual fear of physical contact with adults.
- Fear of home, specific places, or particular adults.
- Unusual nervousness, hyperactivity, aggression, disruptive behavior, destructiveness towards oneself or others.
- Overly compliant, shy, withdrawn, passive, and uncommunicative.
- Changes in sleep patterns, fear of the dark, nightmares, and regressive behavior (bed-wetting).
- Little or no emotional reaction when hurt or threatened.
- Habitual absences from the service without explanation (when regular attendance is expected).
- Complaining of headaches, stomach aches, or nausea without a physical cause.
- Poor self-care or personal hygiene.

Child Sexual Abuse

Child sexual abuse is when a person uses power or authority over a child to involve them in sexual activity.
This can include a wide range of physical and non-contact sexual activity.
Physical sexual contact:
- Kissing or fondling a child in a sexual way.
- Masturbation.
- Fondling the child's genitals.
- Oral sex.
- Vaginal or anal penetration by a penis, finger, or other object.
- Exposure of the child to pornography.
Non-contact offenses:
- Talking to a child in a sexually explicit way.
- Sending sexual messages or emails to a child.
- Exposing a sexual body part to a child.
- Forcing a child to watch a sexual act, including showing pornography to a child.
- Making a child pose or perform in a sexual manner (including child sexual exploitation).
- Grooming or manipulation.
- Child sexual abuse does not always involve force. Children may be manipulated into believing they are at fault or the abuse is an expression of love through grooming.

Child Sexual Exploitation

Child sexual exploitation is a form of sexual abuse where offenders use their power (physical, financial, or emotional) over a child to sexually or emotionally abuse them.
It often involves situations where young people receive something (food, accommodation, drugs, alcohol, cigarettes, affection, gifts, money) in exchange for sexual activity.
It can occur in person or online, and the child may not realize they are a victim.

Risk Factors for Child Sexual Abuse

Any child can be a victim of sexual abuse, but vulnerable, isolated, or disabled children are disproportionately abused.

Physical Indicators of Child Sexual Abuse

Physical indicators of child sexual abuse:
- Injury to the genital or rectal area (bruising, bleeding, discharge, inflammation, or infection).
- Injury to areas of the body like breasts, buttocks, or upper thighs.
- Discomfort urinating or defecating.
- Presence of foreign bodies in the vagina and/or rectum.
- Sexually transmitted infections.
- Frequent urinary tract infections.

Behavioral Indicators of Child Sexual Abuse

Behavioral indicators of child sexual abuse in infants or toddlers:
- Self-stimulatory behaviors (rocking, head banging).
- Excessive crying or no crying at all.
- Listlessness, immobility, emaciation, or paleness.
- Significant delays in gross motor development and coordination.
Behavioral indicators in all children, including infants and toddlers
- Disclosure of sexual abuse (by the child, friend, or family member).
- Drawings or descriptions of sexually explicit stories that are not age-appropriate.
- Persistent and age-inappropriate sexual activity (excessive masturbation or rubbing genitals against adults).
- Wariness or fear of parents, carers, or guardians and reluctance to go home.
- Unusual fear of physical contact with adults.
- Changes in sleep patterns, fear of the dark, nightmares, and regressive behavior (bed-wetting).
- Wearing clothes unsuitable for the weather to hide injuries.
- Unusual nervousness, hyperactivity, aggression, disruptive behavior, destructiveness towards oneself or others.
- Overly compliant, shy, withdrawn, passive, and uncommunicative.
- Fear of home, specific places, or particular adults.
- Poor self-care or personal hygiene.
- Complaining of headaches, stomach aches, or nausea without a physical cause.

Grooming

Grooming is when a person engages in predatory conduct to prepare a child for sexual activity later.
This can involve communicating with or befriending the child or their parents.
Some grooming behaviors may look like "normal" caring behavior.
Grooming behaviors:
- Giving gifts or special attention to a child or their parent/carer.
- Controlling a child through threats, force, or use of authority (this can make a child or their parent fearful of reporting unwanted behavior).
- Making close physical contact or sexual contact (inappropriate tickling or wrestling).
- Openly or accidentally exposing the victim to nudity, sexual material, or sexual acts.

Behavioral Indicators of Child Grooming

Behavioral indicators that a child may be subject to grooming:
- Developing an unusually close connection with an older person.
- Displaying mood changes (hyperactive, secretive, hostile, aggressive, impatient, resentful, anxious, withdrawn, depressed).
- Using street language or copying the way the new friend speaks.
- Talking about a new friend who doesn't belong to their usual social circle.
- Possessing gifts, money, and expensive items given by the friend.

Emotional Child Abuse

Emotional child abuse is when a child is repeatedly rejected, isolated, or frightened by threats or by witnessing family violence.
It can also include hostility, derogatory name-calling and put-downs, and persistent coldness from a person to the extent that the child suffers emotional or psychological harm.
Emotional abuse may occur with or without other forms of abuse.

Physical Indicators of Emotional Child Abuse

Physical indicators of emotional abuse:
- Language delay, stuttering, or selective mutism.
- Delays in emotional, mental, or physical development.

Behavioral Indicators of Emotional Child Abuse

Behavioral indicators of emotional child abuse in infants and toddlers:
- Self-stimulatory behaviors (rocking, head banging).
- Excessive crying or no crying at all.
- Listlessness, immobility, emaciation, or paleness.
- Significant delays in gross motor development and coordination.
- Unresponsive or impatient parents/carers to the child's cues and unreceptive to support.
Behavioral indicators in all children, including infants and toddlers:
- Overly compliant, passive, and undemanding behavior.
- Extremely demanding, aggressive, and attention-seeking behavior.
- Antisocial and destructive behavior.
- Low tolerance for frustration.
- Poor self-image and low self-esteem.
- Unexplained mood swings, depression, self-harm.
- Behaviors that are not age-appropriate.
- Significant delays in gross and fine motor development and coordination.
- Poor social and interpersonal skills.
- Violent drawings or writing.
- Lack of positive social contact with other children.

Neglect

Neglect is the failure to provide a child with:
- Adequate nutrition.
- Medical care.
- Clothing.
- Shelter.
- Supervision.
This can significantly impair or seriously risk the child's health or physical development.
In some circumstances, neglect can place the child's immediate safety and development at serious risk.
Neglect may not immediately compromise safety but can result in long-term cumulative harm.
Low-to-moderate concerns for a child's wellbeing such as conflict within a family, parenting difficulties, family isolation, or lack of support should also be addressed.

Physical Indicators of Neglect

Physical indicators of neglect:
- Appearing consistently dirty and unwashed.
- Consistently being inappropriately dressed for weather conditions.
- Being at risk of injury due to consistent lack of adequate supervision from parents.
- Consistently being hungry, tired, and listless.
- Having unattended health problems and a lack of routine medical care.
- Having inadequate shelter and unsafe or unsanitary living conditions.

Behavioral Indicators of Neglect

Behavioral indicators of neglect in infants and toddlers:
- Self-stimulatory behaviors (rocking, head banging).
- Excessive crying or no crying at all.
- Listlessness, immobility, emaciation, or paleness.
- Significant delays in gross motor development and coordination.
- Inadequate attention to home safety (e.g., leaving a child unattended).
Behavioral indicators in all children, including infants and toddlers.
- Overly compliant, passive, and undemanding behavior.
- Extremely demanding, aggressive, and attention-seeking behavior.
- Antisocial and destructive behavior.
- Low tolerance for frustration.
- Poor self-image and low self-esteem.
- Unexplained mood swings, depression, self-harm.
- Behaviors that are not age-appropriate.
- Significant delays in gross and fine motor development and coordination.
- Poor social and interpersonal skills.
- Violent drawings or writing.
- Lack of positive social contact with other children.

Child Abuse Indicators

Indicators such as lack of supervision, developmental delay, lack of responsiveness or interaction with parents, and being left with inadequate caregivers can indicate neglect.
Infants and toddlers may exhibit signs of neglect through gorging on food when available, begging for food, appearing withdrawn, displaying aggressive behavior, showing indiscriminate affection towards strangers, having developmental delays, and refusing to go home.
Children who have experienced family violence may exhibit speech disorders, delays in physical development, failure to thrive, bruises in various locations, and internal injuries.

Family Violence

Family violence includes physical violence, verbal abuse, emotional or psychological abuse, sexual abuse, and financial and social abuse.
Exposure to family violence is harmful to children and can result in physical harm and long-term trauma.
The risk of family violence is increased during pregnancy and when families have very young babies.
If you suspect a child is being exposed to family violence, follow the four critical actions.

Family Violence in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Communities

Family violence in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities may involve relationships beyond the Western nuclear family model.
It can also include cultural and spiritual abuse.
Perpetrators of family violence in these communities might not be Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander themselves.
It's important to acknowledge the historical context of colonization, dispossession, and loss of culture in these communities.
Despite this context, the survivor's experience of violence should be acknowledged, and your obligation to report and respond remains.

Behavioural Indicators of Family Violence

Indicators in infants and toddlers include self-stimulatory behaviors, excessive crying or lack thereof, appearing listless or pale, and gross motor development delays.
All children may show violent or aggressive behavior, depression, anxiety, difficulty adjusting to change, developmentally inappropriate bedwetting, attention-seeking behavior, risky behavior, overcompliance, withdrawal, cruelty to animals, fear of going home, and physical complaints without medical basis.

Inappropriate Sexual Behaviour

Problem sexual behavior refers to concerning sexual behavior exhibited by children under 10 years old.
Sexually abusive behavior is the term used for concerning sexual behavior in children between 10 and 15 years old.
A child exhibiting sexually abusive behavior may need therapy and it could indicate the child is being abused themselves.
Sexually abusive behavior may amount to a sexual offense, which includes rape, sexual assault, indecent acts, and other unwanted sexualized touching.
It can be challenging to determine if a child's sexual behavior is a sexual offense or indicative of abuse.
Under Victorian law, children between 12 and 15 can only consent to sexual activity with a peer no more than two years older.
Consent means having the capacity to understand the context and consequences of the sexual act.
If you witness an incident, receive a disclosure, or suspect a child has engaged in inappropriate sexual behavior, follow the four critical actions.
If a child's behavior leads you to believe they may be subject to abuse, follow the four critical actions.

Reporting Obligations

In an emergency, contact Emergency Services on 000.
Report any reasonable belief of a sexual offense against a child under 16 to Victoria Police.
Report to DHHS Child Protection if you believe a child is:
- In need of protection due to abuse
- At risk of harm or has been harmed, and the harm impacts their safety, stability, or development.
For concerns about a child's wellbeing, report to DFFH Child Protection or refer to ChildFIRST.

Documenting Concerns

Record concerns in a non-judgmental and accurate manner.
Include observations and details of discussions with parents.
Do not conduct your own investigation.
Provide accurate information to Child Protection, including:
- Child's personal details
- Indicators of harm
- Detailed description of alleged abuse
- Safety assessment
- Other services involved
- Family information
- Cultural characteristics
- Notifier information
- Date and signature

Handling Disclosures of Harm

Give the child or young person full attention.
Remain calm and avoid panic or shock.
Reassure the child it is okay to tell.
Listen actively and allow the child to take their time.
Accept the child may disclose only what they are comfortable with.
Let the child use their own words.
Don't make promises you can't keep.