Summer Camps, Summer Day Care And Texas Child Abuse

As school lets out for the summer across Texas, many kids will begin to attend summer programs, day camps, and sleepover summer camps – or any number of child care solutions that their working parents can find for their children while they are not of school. While many of these programs and arrangements can be fun, rewarding, and even educational for children, parents should remember that child abuse, child neglect, and daycare abuse are still issues at summer camps, day camps, and temporary day cares.

What can you do to prevent daycare abuse and neglect during summer months or summer programs?

•    Even if you are only using the service for a few months, be sure to research your choices and tour the facility.
•    Pay special attention to whether your child’s behavior changes significantly after attending a camp or daycare center.
•    Look for physical signs of abuse, such as bruises, scratches, or burns.
•    If your child says that they hate the camp or the center, take notice and talk honestly with your child about why they don’t want to attend.
•    Speak with the parents of other children in the program and share any concerns you might have with them.
•    If you suspect child abuse, report it. In Texas, it is the law.