Click Here to Make a Child Abuse and Neglect Report Online in Delaware

Together, we can all make a difference in the life of a child. It starts with prevention, education and awareness.

The signs of child abuse and neglect may not always be as obvious as a broken bone or bruise. There are behavioral and physical indicators that can give you clues. Download a PDF copy about some of the signs of abuse/neglect. You can also learn more about the signs of child sexual abuse and the myths surrounding the issue.

Reporting a suspected case of abuse or neglect is an incredibly important task. If you are concerned about a child, here is what to expect when you call the hotline. Learn what you should be prepared to share with our Report Line staff. Also, have you ever wondered what happens after you hang up?  Read the information on the Investigative Process.

Information for Professionals

Mandatory Reporting Training

Mandatory Reporting Trainings for various disciplines which include educators, medical professionals and general professional audiences.

Resources for Parents Who Need a Hand

In Delaware, parents can take advantage of Help Me Grow. Call 2-1-1 if you need to be connected to resources within the community to help you manage issues whether you are facing multiple challenges such as single parenthood, or need access to low income services and support (i.e. POC, Medicaid, TANF).

211 is a centralized telephone access point to connect families to appropriate community resources in a timely manner. Help Me Grow also serves as a resource to parents with general issues and concerns related to their child’s development.  The 211 hotline also has specialized call specialists so when you call, either enter the prompt for Help Me Grow or ask the call specialist to connect you with this unit.

Prevention Starts at Home

By ensuring that parents have the knowledge, skills, and resources they need to care for their children, we can help promote children’s social and emotional well-being and prevent child maltreatment within families and communities.

Research shows that when parents possess six protective factors, the risk for neglect and abuse diminish and optimal outcomes for children, youth, and families are promoted. The six protective factors are:

• Nurturing and attachment
• Knowledge of parenting and of child and youth development
• Parental resilience
• Social connections
• Concrete supports for parents
• Social and emotional developmental well-being

Parent and Caregiver Resources

• Prevent Child Abuse Delaware – Resources and articles to support resiliency
• 14 Tip Sheets – Strengthening Families, Managing Stress, Dealing with Babies, Toddlers and Teens (English)
• 14 Tip Sheets – Strengthening Families, Managing Stress, Dealing with Babies, Toddlers and Teens (Spanish)

Audio PSA’s and Clips Child Abuse Prevention

• Prevent Child Abuse
• Think Before You Act
• Time Out

Related Topics:  child abuse and neglect, child safety, child welfare, DFS, Family Services, iseethesigns, mandatory reporting, report child abuse