Guide
10 Signs of Child Abuse
An introduction to possible physical, behavioral, and emotional signs that may warrant attention.
Prevention & Education
Knowledge can help protect a child.
Learning to recognize possible signs of abuse, respond appropriately, and create safer environments can make a meaningful difference. Deirdre’s House provides information, resources, and education for families, professionals, schools, and the Morris County community.
You do not need to be an expert to take a concern seriously.
Concerned about a child?
Possible signs do not always mean that abuse has occurred. However, you do not need proof or certainty to report a reasonable concern. In New Jersey, call the State Central Registry at 1-877-NJ-ABUSE (1-877-652-2873), available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If a child is in immediate danger, call 911.
Start where you are
What would you like to do?
Choose the path that best matches what you need today.
Recognize possible signs
Learn about physical, behavioral, and emotional changes that may indicate a child needs attention or support.
Learn the signsHelp create safer environments
Find practical prevention resources for caregivers, families, schools, and community members.
Explore prevention resourcesEducate your organization or community
Explore presentations and training opportunities for schools, professionals, businesses, faith communities, and community groups.
View training opportunitiesRecognize. Listen. Respond.
You do not need to investigate. You need to know what to do next.
A single behavior or physical sign does not necessarily mean that abuse has occurred. Patterns, sudden changes, a child’s words, and your own observations may give you a reason to be concerned.
If a child tells you something concerning, stay calm, listen without judgment, and avoid detailed or leading questions. Do not promise to keep the information secret. Report the concern to the appropriate authorities.
- 01
Notice
Pay attention to concerning physical, behavioral, or emotional changes without jumping to conclusions.
- 02
Listen
Allow the child to speak in their own words. Stay calm and avoid interrogating or coaching them.
- 03
Report
You do not need proof or certainty. Share what you observed, heard, or were told with the New Jersey State Central Registry.
Practical information
Resources for safer childhoods
Explore clear, practical information designed to help adults recognize concerns, talk about safety, and support children in everyday situations.
Online safety
Tips to Keep Children Safer Online
Practical information about parental controls, privacy, screen time, social platforms, and age-appropriate online supervision.
Family resource
Body Safety Toolkit
Age-appropriate tools to help caregivers begin conversations with children about boundaries, body safety, and asking trusted adults for help.
Family & caregiver support
Resources for Families
Find information from Deirdre’s House and trusted local, state, and national organizations supporting children and caregivers.
For professionals
Clear guidance for people who work with children
Educators, healthcare providers, child care professionals, coaches, faith leaders, social service providers, and other community professionals play an important role in recognizing concerns and responding appropriately.
- Reporting guidance for New Jersey professionals
- Possible signs of abuse and neglect
- Trauma-informed response considerations
- Trusted local, state, and national resources
Learning for your community
Bring prevention education to your organization
Deirdre’s House offers presentations and training opportunities for schools, professionals, businesses, parents, students, faith communities, and community groups.
Explore available topics, learn which audiences each presentation is designed for, and request a session for your organization.
- Options for professional and community audiences
- In-person and virtual formats may be available
- Presentations available in English and Spanish
Featured program
The Game of Life Program
An interactive educational experience that introduces high school students to community services, real-world decisions, and the local organizations available to provide help and support.
Learn how the program works, who it is designed for, and how a school or provider can get involved.
Prevention & Education
Find the information you need
Signs of Child Abuse
Learn about possible signs and how to respond when something concerns you.
Learn the signsChild Abuse Prevention Resources
Explore practical safety information and educational resources for families and communities.
Browse resourcesProfessional Resources
Access reporting guidance and trusted information for people who work with children.
View professional resourcesTraining & Presentations
Learn about educational sessions available for organizations and community groups.
Explore trainingsRequest a Training
Tell us about your audience, preferred format, and training needs.
Request a sessionGame of Life Program
Explore an interactive educational program designed for high school students.
Learn about the programBuilding a safer community
Prevention begins with informed, prepared adults.
Use these resources, share what you learn, or invite Deirdre’s House to help educate your school, workplace, organization, or community.
Concerned about a child? Call 1-877-NJ-ABUSE (1-877-652-2873). If a child is in immediate danger, call 911.