Abuse & neglect: early childhood

When a parent or caregiver fails to provide the basic needs for a child to grow up happy and healthy, it can cause serious long-term effects. For healthy development, children need food, clothing, safety, shelter and emotional support, especially during the early years of their lives.

A child can never, in any situation, consent to any form of sexual activity. When someone engages in sexual behavior with a child, it is a crime that can have lasting emotional and physical effects. If you are concerned that a child may be suffering from sexual abuse, reach out immediately for help, advice and support.

Although emotional abuse hurts just as much as physical abuse, it can be harder to identify. The marks are left on the inside, and small infants are too young to report the abuse themselves. Find programs and services dedicated to supporting children in Stark County who are struggling with emotional abuse.

When a baby is abused, it can have severe consequences including developmental issues, brain damage or even death. If you are concerned that an infant, toddler or young child may be suffering from physical abuse, reach out for help, advice and support.

If you suspect childhood abuse or neglect, don’t wait to reach out. When it comes to children in crisis, every minute can be crucial in preventing an episode of abuse. Whether you have a concern about mental, emotional or physical cruelty, call the hotline today.

Human trafficking is one of the fastest growing crimes in Northeast Ohio, and young people in Stark County are especially vulnerable. Through child labor, prostitution and domestic servitude, many of our community’s youth are being exploited against their will for monetary gain. Fortunately, there is a network of local resources providing life-saving information and escape routes for survivors of human trafficking.

If you know a child that has experienced or is currently experiencing abuse or neglect, it is essential that they find a path to safety right away. Help young survivors of abuse find the counseling services they need to start the journey toward recovery.

Abuse and neglect can have emotional, mental and physical effects long into a child’s future. Signs like bruises, scrapes, cuts and broken bones are common with physical abuse, while emotional abuse typically results in a change of the child’s actions and behaviors. Learn more about ways to identify and report child abuse and neglect.