What must be reported if suspected child abuse occurs in early education centers?

• A. Not required in early education centers.
• B. To report to the police directly.
• C. It must be reported according to the suspected child abuse reporting procedures.
• D. Only when there is physical evidence.

Answer: (C)

Suspected child abuse must be reported by following the district’s suspected child abuse reporting procedures. This ensures the child’s safety is addressed promptly, and the report is handled consistently and legally. Staff observe, document concerns, and notify the appropriate internal contact (such as the site administrator or designated safeguarding official) and then file the mandated external report with the proper agency (like child protective services and/or law enforcement) within the required time frame. Acting outside these procedures or waiting for explicit physical evidence can leave a child at risk and create legal risk for the school. Therefore, the correct practice is to report according to the established procedures.