In the News: Daycare Acused of Punishing Children with Thumbtacks

From Fox News, Geraldo at Large
Thumbtack Discipline

Many parents trust daycare facilities, nannies and other child care services to to do just that: care for their children. Unfortunately there are many cases of abuse in schools and daycare centers. What's worse is many cases of abuse are unknown because children are either scared to talk about it or are too young to effectively communicate. Physical abuse, sexual abuse and neglect or lack of supervision are very real dangers while your child is in the care of others. It is important to know the warning signs of daycare abuse and talk with your child regularly about his or her day.

How can I tell if my child has been abused?

Children may be physically, emotionally, or sexually abused in daycare facilities, schools, camps, and other settings. You can look for physical symptoms or behavioral changes and talk to their children if they are old enough to discuss the problem. Read our list of warning signs of daycare abuse for more information

Physical symptoms of daycare abuse could include crying or fighting to get out of going to daycare, unusually scared behavior when not at daycare or unusual or multiple bruises with no explanation.

Emotional symptoms of daycare abuse include lack of affection, extreme behaviors, less communication, acting overly adult-like or infantile, delayed physical or emotional development, or unexplained headaches or stomachaches.

Sexual symptoms of daycare abuse include, pain, itching, bleeding or bruising in or around genital areas, difficulty walking or sitting, urinary tract infections, bed wetting, demanding to wear extra clothing, or sexual behavior or curiosity beyond the child's age.

What should I do if I think that my child has been abused at daycare or school?

Talk with your partner and other parents whose children are in the same daycare to compare behaviors and observations. If you still think your child has been abused at daycare, contact the local child protective services agency, the department of human services for the state, city, or county or a local law enforcement officer. Take your child to a doctor as they are trained to notice the signs of abuse and can collect important physical evidence. It is also advices to contact a daycare abuse attorney to make sure your and your child's rights are protected.

Should I contact an attorney if I suspect daycare abuse?

It can't hurt. It may be important for you to contact an attorney who can help you protect your child's legal rights. Only a licensed attorney can evaluate whether you have a case that is worth pursuing. Keep in mind however that there may be time limits (Statute of Limitations) which impact on your ability to sue.

How much does an attorney evaluation cost in these types of cases?

We will evaluate your case for free. If we decide to take your case, you will owe no fees or other costs unless we recovers money for you.