Understanding Physical Abuse
Hitting and Striking
Punching, slapping, kicking, or hitting with objects.
Burning
Deliberate burns from cigarettes, hot water, irons, or other heat sources.
Shaking
Violently shaking a child, particularly dangerous for infants (Shaken Baby Syndrome).
Other Injuries
Choking, biting, pulling hair, or other physical actions causing injury.
Signs & Indicators
Recognizing the warning signs is the first step toward protecting a child. Watch for these indicators:
- Unexplained burns, bites, bruises, broken bones, or black eyes
- Fading bruises or marks after absence from school
- Frightened of parents or certain adults
- Shrinks at the approach of adults
- Reports injury by a parent or caregiver
- Wears long sleeves or inappropriate clothing to cover injuries
What Should You Do?
1
Recognize the Signs
Trust your instincts. If something doesn't seem right, it probably isn't.
2
Call the Hotline
Report your concerns to the Colorado Child Abuse & Neglect Hotline at 844-CO-4-KIDS.
3
Provide Information
Share what you've observed. You don't need proof — trained professionals will investigate.
If Not You, Then Who?
Don't wait. Your call could make the difference in a child's life.
