Abuse: Offer Support
Whatever you choose is the right thing for you;
no one has the right to take control away from you.
Suspected Abuse/Neglect:
If you believe a child has been sexually or physically abused, what can you do?
Most importantly, believe your child. Children almost never lie about abuse. Tell your child you're glad she or he told you, and that you will try to help them be safe in the future. (Be aware that unfortunately, some institutions may assume that your child is lying or they may assume you are lying to get revenge on your partner, to get child custody, or to win a court battle.) Keep a log and write down all incidents and all statements about the abuse.
Get your child some counseling. Get some support for yourself.
File a report with Michigan Child Protective Services.
Isabella County Child Protective Services (989) 772-8400 (daytime)| (800) 322-4822 (afterhours)
Michigan Child Abuse Reporting (800) 942-4357 (24Hours)
You can also call the police. Give CPS and the police as many concrete details as you can. Understand that they cannot take action based on what your child has told you. They will have to hear it directly from the child.
If your child has been sexually assaulted or abused, he or she should have a medical exam. However, do not take him or her to your family doctor for an exam. Most doctors are not trained to do such exams, & it would be traumatic for the child. Ask CPS to make a referral to the Child and Family Enrichment Center in Mount Pleasant.