What to Do If Your Child Has Been Abused at Daycare
Discovering that your child has been abused at daycare is every parent’s worst nightmare. It’s an overwhelming, emotional experience, and knowing what steps to take next can feel like an impossible task. At The Button Law Firm, we’ve guided many families through this heartbreaking situation, and we want to share some critical steps you can take to protect your child, preserve your rights, and begin the path toward justice and healing.
1. Request an Incident Report from the Daycare
The first step after discovering an injury or abuse is to ask the daycare for a copy of the incident report. Licensed daycare centers are required to document any injuries that occur while a child is in their care. This report should include details like:
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The time and location of the incident
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A description of what happened
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Who was involved, and any immediate actions taken
Having this documentation is essential. It can help clarify what happened and may serve as valuable evidence if legal action becomes necessary. Be sure to keep a copy of the report for your records.
2. Report the Incident to Your State’s Childcare Licensing Agency
In addition to speaking with the daycare, it’s essential to report the incident to your state’s childcare regulatory agency. This ensures that an independent investigation is opened and that the daycare is held accountable.
If you’re in Texas, this means contacting the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS). You can call the Texas Abuse Hotline or submit a report online. Urgent cases are typically investigated within 24 hours, while non-emergency reports may take up to 48 hours to process.
Filing a report with your state agency not only helps your own family, but it also helps protect other children from potential harm. On our website, you can find a helpful guide to reporting daycare abuse in your state.
3. Report Abuse to Law Enforcement if Necessary
If you suspect that your child was physically or sexually abused, it’s absolutely vital to contact the police. While our team at The Button Law Firm can support you with a civil case, these types of abuse are also criminal matters that must be addressed by law enforcement.
Filing a police report helps initiate a criminal investigation, which can protect your child and others from ongoing or future abuse. It also allows prosecutors to pursue criminal charges against those responsible.
4. Preserve All Medical and Psychological Records
Children who are injured or abused in daycare often need medical or psychological care. Even if the injury seems minor at first, some symptoms may take days or even weeks to fully develop. Make sure you:
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Take your child to a trusted healthcare provider
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Keep detailed records of all diagnoses and treatments
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Document any changes in your child’s physical or emotional condition
This documentation can be a key part of your case and help ensure your child gets the care they need to recover.
5. Monitor Your Child’s Emotional Well-Being
Children process trauma in different ways, and many don’t have the words to explain what they’re feeling. Be on the lookout for emotional or behavioral changes, such as:
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Fear or anxiety about going back to daycare
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Increased clinginess or separation anxiety
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Aggressive or withdrawn behavior
If you notice any of these signs, it may be time to speak with a licensed child therapist. Early intervention can help your child feel safe again and begin to heal from the trauma.
6. Speak with a Daycare Injury Lawyer
Lastly, if you’re feeling unsure or overwhelmed, reach out for legal guidance. At The Button Law Firm, we focus on helping families navigate daycare abuse and neglect cases. We understand how sensitive and urgent these situations are—and we’re here to help you take the right steps forward.
Our team can assist with gathering evidence, dealing with regulatory agencies, and holding the daycare accountable for the harm they caused. You don’t have to face this alone.
If your family is dealing with a daycare abuse incident, visit our website to find helpful resources, including how to report daycare abuse in your state. When you’re ready to take action, contact us by calling (214) 699-4409, emailing intake@buttonlawfirm.com, or filling out our contact form.
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