Everyone has a role in making sure communities are safe places for children to grow and thrive

In the effort to end child abuse and neglect, the best tool is knowledge. The more you know, the more you can do to help those who have been harmed and  prevent future harm from occurring. We encourage you to learn more about child abuse, how to support the end of it in your community, and to share the information you've learned with those around you. 

Knowing the Ten-4 Rule 

As we know, kids are kids, and they may end up with marks or bruising on bony areas of the body commonly associated with falls including knees, shins,  elbows and foreheads. However, there are other bruises and marks that may indicate child abuse. The acronym TEN-4 can help members of the community remember areas of the body where bruising is cause for concern and should be reported. Any bruising anywhere on a baby that is not taking steps or pulling up should be reported. 

T Torso

E Ears

N Neck

4 4 and younger 

Other Warning Signs

There are other warning signs that may help us identify child abuse or neglect in children of all ages, these include: 

♦ Bruising in babies who are not cruising yet
♦ For a child of any age, bruising to the ears, neck, torso, buttocks, or genitals
♦ Burns on a young baby or child, such as those caused by cigarettes or immersion in hot water

♦ Aggression toward peers, pets, other animals
​♦ Pain when toileting, frequent yeast infections or urinary tract infections, or any sexually transmitted disease or related symptoms could be signs of sexual abuse
​♦ ​Seems afraid of parents or other adults

If You Suspect Child Abuse or Neglect

There are some helpful tips provided by Face It to assist you in taking action if you suspect child abuse or neglect:

♦ Remember to stay calm and conversational if you notice suspicious bruising on a child.
♦ Document what you see and hear this includes size, color, and shape of the bruising and what the child and parent/guardian say.
♦Ask questions, this may include "What happened there?" "Did an adult see that happen?"
♦ Make the report. If you suspect that child abuse or neglect has taken place call the Montana Child Abuse Hotline at 1(866) 820-5437.
♦ If you are concerned but unsure if you should report suspected child abuse or neglect our Child-Advocate Counselors can be reached 24/7/365 to consult at 406-586-3333

Adapted from material by The Face It® Movement, an initiative led by Kosair Charities in the state of Kentucky. For more information visit their ​website at https://faceitabuse.org/