5 warning signs that indicate child neglect

5 warning signs that indicate child neglect

Unbeknownst to many, child neglect is a rising concern in the country. Studies indicate that around 4 million children in the country face neglect from caregivers. Understanding the signs that indicate child neglect is essential in adopting measures to ensure the safety of such children. Signs like poor hygiene and behavioral changes, if appearing frequently, indicate that children are subject to neglect. A few warning signs that indicate child maltreatment are discussed below.

Poor hygiene and unkempt appearance
Children subject to neglect might consistently exhibit signs of poor hygiene. Such kids might show signs of living in unhygienic conditions, such as extreme body odor and lack of appropriate clothing for the weather. Furthermore, their clothes may be messy or smelly. In the case of infants and toddlers, there may be frequent or untreated nappy rashes.

Behavioral changes
It is one of the most notable indications suggesting a child is neglected. The child may appear to have sudden changes in their behavior patterns. It may include showing signs of extreme clinginess, becoming withdrawn, displaying aggressive behavior, and exhibiting symptoms of anxiety, self-harm, paranoia, and sadness. Additionally, there may be signs of drastic changes in their school performance. Such children might find it hard to focus in class and have poor attendance records. They may be unable to connect with children of the same age, leading to poor peer relationships. Some children also tend to hoard food.

Issues related to health and development
Unusual changes in eating habits might also indicate child neglect. As a result, the child may show symptoms of anemia, unhealthy muscle tone, joints that appear prominent, and dental issues. Other health-related issues include recurring and frequent infections, accidental injuries due to lack of supervision, and skin-related conditions such as rashes, sores, flea bites, ringworm, and scabies. Other signs that suggest a child is neglected include a swollen or thin stomach and untreated injuries. The child may also show signs of fatigue. In addition, there will be signs of missed doctor appointments.

Developmental problems
A notable sign of neglect among children is developmental issues. The child will be unable to meet the standard developmental milestones that children of the same group have already achieved. Moreover, there will be problems related to their physical and emotional growth. In addition, a child who has been neglected will show signs of lower-than-average social and language skills.

Issues related to housing and family
Children facing neglect may live in inappropriate housing conditions without proper heating, light, or running water. They are probably left alone and unsupervised for long periods. They may not have a proper curfew time or bedtime and lack routine within the family setting. In some cases, the child may even have to take on the role of a caregiver for the family.

You can extend your support and provide funds for genuine causes of child support and development in many ways. Donations can be made online with monetary help given as a lump sum amount or a monthly contribution. In addition, you can also register as a guardian angel to provide child sponsorship, where you pay to support their food, clothing, shelter, and even education needs as an anonymous donor.

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9 benefits of donating to charity

As far as charity is concerned, people usually think of it in linear terms. Donations help those in need, and it's normal to believe this is the only goal. But many people are unaware that there is so much more to the act of giving. Lending a helping hand is only one of many benefits of making charitable donations. Individuals who share their wealth may also have rewarding personal, emotional, and mental experiences. Helping those in need One of the biggest benefits of donating money is helping those in need. The world isn't perfect or even fair, for that matter. What makes a difference is a surplus sharing with those who don't have privileges to bank on. Providing a positive experience A National Institute of Health study found that people who chose to donate would activate the pleasure centers in their brains. While there is more research to be conducted to understand this link, sharing is an undeniably satisfying experience. Taxes are deductible Donating to charity also comes with the benefit of a tax deduction. If you've contributed to an IRS-approved non-profit organization, you'll get a write-off on the donation sum while filing returns. Setting an example Donating to a local or international community allows you to set a good example for the youth in the community. After all, children do what they see. Making an impact Charities impact the community at large by uplifting those in need of help. Donations provide a better standard and quality of life, access to education, and even healthcare to improve the community's standing. Making life more meaningful Contributing and sharing your wealth allows you to meet and mingle with other like-minded individuals. You get to share your passions and bring about a positive influence on the issues at hand. Helping everyone feel happy Spending your hard-earned money on yourself is thrilling, but sharing your wealth with others can also feel rewarding. Studies have shown that individuals are happier when giving rather than receiving. Volunteering can reduce depression and improve overall mental well-being. Feeling grateful Overlooking what we don't personally experience is easy. But volunteering and donating to a cause can show you different ways of life and make you feel thankful for what you have. Inspiring others People are more likely to do something if they see someone else do it. You may inspire your close ones to be generous this way. If you’re interested in donating, you can check out various charities that offer care and support for patients with diabetes, cancer, and other such conditions. St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital is one such charity that focuses on providing cancer care for children. You can offer donations, memorialize a loved one, or even volunteer here. You can also make various contributions to the Diabetes Foundation. This can be in the form of food items, clothes, and even your old car. Habitat for Humanity, Goodwill, and The Salvation Army are organizations that accept car donations.  

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