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 It may include showing signs of extreme clinginess, becoming withdrawn, displaying aggressive behavior, and exhibiting symptoms of anxiety, self-harm, paranoia, and sadness.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.