Warning Signs of Child Care Abuse

Unfortunately, there is no guarantee ever that the person you hire will be 100% trustworthy. Only time will prove this to you. There will hopefully come a day when you will be able to say with confidence, 'you know, I think nanny would throw herself in front of a bus to protect my child.'

Many times parents have to go on their gut instincts when it comes to suspected your child is being mistreated by a caregiver. Unfortunately, you may have to act on your instincts without ever being sure

Here are signs to look for if you suspect that your child is being mistreated:

The caregiver has lied to you or stolen from you.

He or she does not answer questions about the daily routine.

You come home to find your child unsupervised.

The caregiver does not respond to your child.

Your child becomes moody or withdrawn or has problems eating or sleeping.

Your child suddenly becomes upset when left with the caregiver.

You simply have a bad feeling about the caregiver.

You start seeing bruises on your child.

Your child starts sudden bed wetting.

Parents should be sure the nanny or au pair has the support he or she needs to continue acting as a positive caregiver. He or she should have adequate time off and opportunities to meet other adult caregivers in the area. Parents should always be available by phone or beeper to answer emergency calls. In other words, work together and form a partnership for your child's care.

sudden bed wetting