It's a difficult thing to leave our children under the care of other people. Part of being a parent is wanting the absolute best for our kids. We want them to grow up in a safe, enriching environment. 

The last thing we will tolerate is someone abusing our child. However, what if your child doesn't have the ability to speak up and let you know they're being mistreated? While most daycares are full of loving people who take phenomenal care of children, daycare abuse stories aren't uncommon. 

The question is, how can you find out about it. Though most daycare abuse victims can't speak up for themselves, there are signs that point to neglect and abuse. Keep reading for five common signs you should look for if you think your child may not be safe at daycare. 

1. Unchanged Diapers and Chronic Rashes

One of the most important functions of a daycare facility is to ensure the health and safety of your child. This includes taking care of their basic needs like hunger, thirst, and diaper changes. If you constantly get your child back with a soiled diaper, you may want to start asking questions. 

As you well know, staying in a dirty diaper can lead to uncomfortable and painful rashes on your child. If the daycare workers are neglecting your child by leaving them in soiled diapers, it's a definite sign of daycare abuse.

2. Signs of Physical Abuse

One of the most traumatic things you can find is physical signs of injury on your child. These include cuts, scrapes, and bruises. We all know that young children are prone to falling down and having accidents. However, if there are consistent and/or unexplainable signs of physical abuse on your child, it likely points to daycare child abuse.

You need to find a local firm immediately to talk to an attorney who specialized in child injury law. They can also tell you how to report daycare abuse to the appropriate authorities. 

3. Sudden Fear or Resistance to Go to Daycare

If your child is old enough to exhibit signs of changed behavior regarding daycare, pay close attention to it. If your child starts becoming fearful or resistant when it comes time to go to daycare, there's' probably a reason for it. 

Keep in mind, many children will become clingy if they know you're about to leave them for several hours. However, if this behavior is out-of-character or becomes manic, you need to look into it. Abuse in daycare centers often results in this type of behavior.

4. Regressive Behavior

Daycare abuse can also lead to regressive behavior at home. This is similar to PTSD experienced by adults. However, in the case of children, regressive behavior looks like:

• Bed-wetting

• Excessive crying

• Thumb-sucking (and other coping mechanisms)

• Nightmares

• And more

Additionally, if your child starts becoming more clingy or needy than usual, it may be a sign that they're being abused at daycare.

5. Negligent or Indifferent Daycare Staff

Finally, a daycare facility's staff can often betray signs of an abusive or neglectful environment. For example, if you often come in and find workers on their phones, computers, or socializing instead of watching children. Your child may also have strong negative reactions about specific workers, which may point to abuse.

Don't Stand for Daycare Abuse

If you think your child is the victim of daycare abuse, you must act immediately. You may not know how or where to report daycare abuse, and that's okay. Call the local police, child and family services, and a local attorney. 

And if you experience feelings of guilt, remember, this isn't your fault. You can't control other people. But now it's time to do what's right for your child.

And if you're looking for more valuable advice about life, law, or business, check out some of our other articles before you go. Our blog is committed to helping people like you navigate all of life's challenges.