Child abuse facts for kids
Child abuse or child maltreatment means when a child is hurt or not cared for properly. This can be physical harm, emotional harm, or not getting the basic things they need. It often happens when a parent or caregiver does something wrong, or doesn't do something they should.
Child abuse can happen in a child's home. It can also happen in places like schools or other groups a child is part of. The words child abuse and child maltreatment are often used to mean the same thing. However, some people use child maltreatment as a bigger term. It can include not taking care of a child (neglect) or taking advantage of them.
Contents
Understanding Child Abuse
What is Child Abuse?
Child abuse is when someone harms a child. This harm can be to their body, like hitting or hurting them physically. It can also be to their feelings, like saying mean things or making them feel bad. Not taking care of a child is also a type of abuse. This is called neglect. It means a child doesn't get enough food, clothes, a safe home, or medical care.
Where Can It Happen?
Abuse can happen in different places. Most often, it happens at home with family members. But it can also happen in other places where children spend time. This includes schools, sports teams, or other community groups. It's important for children to feel safe everywhere they go.
Getting Help
If you or someone you know is experiencing child abuse, it's important to get help. There are people and organizations who want to support children and keep them safe. Talking to a trusted adult, like a teacher, counselor, or another family member, is a good first step.
Related pages
Images for kids
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A child soldier in El Salvador, 1990.
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Attacks on schoolgirls in Afghanistan are common
See also
In Spanish: Maltrato infantil para niños
