Dupage Policy Journal

State Representative Jennifer Sanalitro of Carol Stream, IL, is calling on the community to educate themselves on the signs of child abuse and neglect in honor of National Child Abuse Prevention Month in April. Sanalitro expressed her concern, stating, “Child abuse casts a shadow the length of a lifetime, and it breaks my heart anytime I hear the details of a child abuse crime.”

Sanalitro stressed the importance of creating a safe environment for all children and urged everyone to be vigilant. She said, “I encourage everyone to learn the signs of Child Abuse and provide a reminder that if you see something, say something.”

To effectively combat child abuse, it is crucial to recognize the warning signs. According to the article, here are 10 red flags that may indicate a child is suffering from abuse:

- Unexplained Injuries

- Changes in Behavior

- Returning to Earlier Behaviors

- Fear of Going Home

- Changes in Eating

- Changes in Sleeping

- Changes in School Performance and Attendance

- Lack of Personal Care and Hygiene

- Risk-Taking Behaviors

- Inappropriate Sexual Behaviors

If there is a suspicion that a child has been harmed or is at risk of harm due to abuse or neglect, individuals are advised to contact 911 or the 24-hour Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-25-ABUSE (1-800-252-2873). In non-emergency cases, reports of suspected child abuse or neglect can be made using the Online Reporting System at https://dcfsonlinereporting.dcfs.illinois.gov/