Neglect means negligent treatment or maltreatment of a child, including the failure to provide adequate food, medical treatment, supervision, clothing, or shelter.

 

 Possible signs of neglect include but not limited to the following: 

• Always be sleepy or tired

• Steal food or money, or beg from classmates

• Report that no caretaker is at home

• Have frequent absences from school

• Show extreme loneliness and need for affection

• Be physically dirty and have body odor

• Wear clothing that is not appropriate for the weather 

• Use alcohol or drugs

• Show an obvious lack of needed medical, dental, or vision care