Indicators of Child Abuse and Reporting
Indicators of Child Abuse and Reporting
Md Arafat Hossain
STUDENT ID 13745174
Australian Sovereign College
CHCPRT001 - Identify and Respond to Children and Young People at Risk
Question 1: List at least three (3) indicators for each of the following types of
abuses/maltreatments:
a. Domestic and family violence
b. Neglect
c. Sexual abuse
d. Physical abuse
e. Psychological harm/ Emotional abuse
Answer:
b. Neglect:
c. Sexual abuse:
d. Physical abuse:
1
Student ID: 13745174
Unit ID: CHCDIV003
Course Code: CHC52015
Trainer: Alan Wang
CHCPRT001 - Identify and Respond to Children and Young People at Risk
Question 2: Explain in your own 50-100 words, how the following factors can impact or influence
abuse to children:
a. Age
b. Gender
c. Disability or Disadvantaged Learners
d. Culture
e. Sexuality
Answer:
a. Age: Younger children may be more vulnerable to abuse due to dependency and
inability to recognize or report abuse. Older children may face different types of
abuse, such as sexual abuse or exploitation, due to increased independence and
social interactions.
b. Gender: Gender norms and power dynamics can influence the likelihood and type of
abuse experienced. For example, girls may be more at risk of sexual abuse, while
boys may face more physical abuse. Gender expectations can also affect reporting
and responses to abuse.
c. Disability or Disadvantaged Learners: Individuals with disabilities or those who are
disadvantaged may face increased risks due to dependency, communication
barriers, and social isolation. They may also be more vulnerable to exploitation and
neglect due to limited resources and support systems.
d. Culture: Cultural beliefs and practices can shape perceptions of abuse, impact
reporting rates, and influence responses from communities and authorities. Cultural
norms around discipline, family structure, and gender roles may either protect or
exacerbate risks of abuse.
e. Sexuality: LGBTQ+ individuals may face unique risks due to stigma, discrimination,
and lack of support networks. They may experience abuse related to sexual
orientation or gender identity, including rejection, conversion therapy, or intimate
partner violence. Socio-cultural attitudes towards sexuality can also impact reporting
and access to services.
Question 3: Describe in your own 15-30 words, the dynamics of abuse and how these may be
observed or determined.
Answer:
The dynamics of abuse involve power and control exerted by the abuser over the victim, often
characterized by manipulation, coercion, and isolation. Observations may include patterns of
behaviour, changes in demeanour, and disclosure by the victim.
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Student ID: 13745174
Unit ID: CHCDIV003
Course Code: CHC52015
Trainer: Alan Wang
CHCPRT001 - Identify and Respond to Children and Young People at Risk
Answer:
a. Type A: Domestic and family violence refers to the witnessing of violence in the
home between family members (a parent or a sibling). This may include physical,
psychological, sexual and financial abuse.
b. Type E: Psychological harm/ Emotional abuse refers to inappropriate verbal
communications such as shouting, swearing, over criticising and belittling, and also
rejecting, isolating, intimidating and ignoring.
c. Type B: Neglect refers to the failure to provide the fundamental requirements of
physical and emotional development and so endangering a child’s sense of
wellbeing. Physical neglect includes inadequate clothing, housing, food and health
care. Emotional neglect includes lack of nurturing care, warmth, encouragement and
support.
d. Type D: Physical abuse refers to the non-accidental use of physical force which my
result in harm to a child. Physical punishment which causes bruising, lacerations,
welts, burns, fractures or dislocations of limbs would be considered physical abuse.
So, would attempted strangulation, suffocation and female genital mutilation. A
situation which is particularly inappropriate for a child’s stage of development (e.g.
shaking an infant) would be considered physically abusive even if the infant was not
injured.
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Student ID: 13745174
Unit ID: CHCDIV003
Course Code: CHC52015
Trainer: Alan Wang
CHCPRT001 - Identify and Respond to Children and Young People at Risk
e. Type C: Sexual abuse refers to sexual acts with a child. These include fondling,
penetration, masturbation and exposing a child to pornography. The age of consent
for sexual interactions varies between sixteen and seventeen years of age in
Australian states and territories.
Question 5: Explain in your own 10-20 words, the meaning and importance of “mandatory
reporting” in early childhood education and care (ECEC) setting.
Answer:
"Mandatory reporting" in ECEC mandates staff to report suspected child abuse, ensuring swift
protection and support for vulnerable children.
Answer:
4
Student ID: 13745174
Unit ID: CHCDIV003
Course Code: CHC52015
Trainer: Alan Wang
CHCPRT001 - Identify and Respond to Children and Young People at Risk
Question 7: Mention the name of the child protection legislation in your state or territory.
Answer:
In Tasmania, Australia, the child protection legislation is governed by the Children, Young Persons
and Their Families Act 1997. This legislation outlines the framework for child protection services,
including provisions for the safety, welfare, and rights of children and young people in Tasmania.
Please note that "Hobart" appears to be a typographical error, and it's assumed to refer to Hobart,
which is the capital city of Tasmania.
5
Student ID: 13745174
Unit ID: CHCDIV003
Course Code: CHC52015
Trainer: Alan Wang
CHCPRT001 - Identify and Respond to Children and Young People at Risk
Question 8: Explain the legislative definition of the following terms in 20-30 words:
• “Risk of harm”
• “Significant concerns for wellbeing”
• “Detrimental effect of significant nature”
Answer:
"Risk of harm": Refers to situations where there is a reasonable belief or likelihood that a
child may suffer physical, emotional, or developmental harm without intervention.
"Significant concerns for wellbeing": Denotes substantial worries about a child's overall
welfare encompassing physical, emotional, social, or educational domains, warranting
attention and assessment.
"Detrimental effect of significant nature": Describes the adverse impact of circumstances
on a child's development or wellbeing that is substantial, noteworthy, and necessitates
immediate attention and action.
Question 9: Research:
Do your research and answer the following question:
Mention the specific act and section of the child protection legislation of following states or
territory that defines ‘risk of harm.
Answer:
6
Student ID: 13745174
Unit ID: CHCDIV003
Course Code: CHC52015
Trainer: Alan Wang
CHCPRT001 - Identify and Respond to Children and Young People at Risk
Question 10: List any four (4) services that require mandatory reporters/ reporting of suspected
abuse according to your child protection legislation?
Answer:
In accordance with various child protection legislations, here are four services that typically require
mandatory reporting of suspected abuse:
1. Healthcare Services: Including hospitals, clinics, general practitioners, and allied health
professionals.
2. Educational Institutions: Such as schools, preschools, day cares, and other educational
facilities.
3. Social Services: Including child protection agencies, welfare organizations, and counselling
services.
4. Law Enforcement Agencies: Such as police departments and juvenile justice systems.
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Student ID: 13745174
Unit ID: CHCDIV003
Course Code: CHC52015
Trainer: Alan Wang
CHCPRT001 - Identify and Respond to Children and Young People at Risk
These services are mandated to report suspected cases of child abuse or neglect as part of their duty
to protect children's welfare and safety.
Question 11: List any four (4) common concerns of parents regarding mandatory notification/
reporting?
Answer:
1. Stigmatization: Parents may fear that being reported could lead to stigmatization of their
family, affecting their reputation within the community.
2. Loss of Control: Parents may feel that reporting takes away their autonomy in parenting
decisions and may lead to intervention in their family life.
3. False Allegations: Parents may worry about being wrongly accused of abuse or neglect,
leading to unnecessary investigations or interventions.
4. Impact on Family Dynamics: Parents may be concerned about the emotional impact on their
family, including strain on relationships and potential separation of family members due to
interventions.
Question 12: Explain in 30-60 words how the United Nations Convention of the Rights of the Child
guides the Australian government in regards to child protection.
Answer:
The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) serves as a guiding framework for
the Australian government in ensuring child protection. It emphasizes children's rights to safety,
welfare, and participation in decisions affecting them. Australia incorporates UNCRC principles into
its laws, policies, and practices to safeguard children's rights and promote their well-being, including
measures for child protection and support services.
Question 13: Mention the name of the report, The Council of Australian Governments (COAG)
endorsed to help addressing the requirements specified by the United Nations Convention of the
Rights of the Child. Provide a brief summary of what this report contained (25-50 words)
Answer:
The report endorsed by the Council of Australian Governments (COAG) to address the requirements
of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child is known as the "National Framework for
Protecting Australia’s Children." This framework outlines strategies for child protection, early
intervention, and support services to ensure the well-being of all children in Australia.
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Student ID: 13745174
Unit ID: CHCDIV003
Course Code: CHC52015
Trainer: Alan Wang
CHCPRT001 - Identify and Respond to Children and Young People at Risk
Answer:
a. Duty of care: Legal obligation to act responsibly and provide reasonable care to
ensure the safety and well-being of others, especially vulnerable individuals.
b. Reasonable care: The level of care and caution that a prudent person would exercise
in similar circumstances to prevent foreseeable harm.
c. Trauma-informed care and practice (TICP): Approach that acknowledges the
prevalence and impact of trauma, emphasizing safety, trustworthiness,
collaboration, and empowerment in service provision.
d. Code of ethics: Set of principles and standards outlining expected conduct and
professional behaviour within a particular profession or organization.
e. Risk and protective factors: Risk factors increase the likelihood of negative
outcomes, while protective factors enhance resilience and mitigate the impact of
adversity.
f. Resilience: Ability to adapt and bounce back from adversity, trauma, or stress, often
strengthened by supportive relationships, coping skills, and positive environments.
Answer:
9
Student ID: 13745174
Unit ID: CHCDIV003
Course Code: CHC52015
Trainer: Alan Wang
CHCPRT001 - Identify and Respond to Children and Young People at Risk
• communicate freely and respectfully with roles in the child's life promotes collaborative
• each other decision-making and enhances the child's
• share insights and perspectives about each overall development and well-being.
child
• engage in shared decision-making.
Early childhood educators who are committed This principle emphasizes the dedication of
to equity believe in all children’s capacities to early childhood educators to equity, affirming
succeed, regardless of diverse circumstances the belief in every child's potential to thrive,
and abilities. irrespective of their diverse backgrounds,
circumstances, or abilities. It underscores the
commitment to providing inclusive
environments that support each child's
individual strengths and needs to promote their
holistic development and success.
There are many ways of living, being and of This principle acknowledges the diversity of
knowing. Children are born belonging to a cultures and ways of knowing that children
culture, which is not only influenced by bring with them from birth. It recognizes that
traditional practices, heritage and ancestral children belong to cultural contexts shaped by
knowledge, but also by the experiences, values traditions, heritage, and community values, as
and beliefs of individual families and well as individual family experiences. This
communities. perspective underscores the importance of
respecting and incorporating diverse cultural
perspectives into early childhood education and
care practices.
Critical reflection involves closely examining all This principle emphasizes the importance of
aspects of events and experiences from critical reflection in early childhood education
different perspectives. Educators often frame and care (ECEC). It involves examining events
their reflective practice within a set of and experiences from multiple perspectives and
overarching questions, developing more asking overarching questions to guide
specific questions for particular areas of reflection. Educators reflect on their
enquiry. understanding of each child, the theories that
Overarching questions to guide reflection inform their practice, and the impact of their
include: actions on individuals and groups. They
• What are my understandings of each child? consider challenges, curiosity, and the potential
• What theories, philosophies and for incorporating alternative theories or
understandings shape and assist my work? knowledge to enhance their practice.
• Who is advantaged when I work in this way?
Who is disadvantaged?
• What questions do I have about my work?
• What am I challenged by? What am I curious
about?
• What am I confronted by?
• What aspects of my work are not helped by
the theories and guidance that I usually draw
on to make sense of what I do?
• Are there other theories or knowledge that
could help me to understand better what I have
observed or experienced? What are they? How
might those theories and that knowledge affect
my practice?
A lively culture of
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Student ID: 13745174
Unit ID: CHCDIV003
Course Code: CHC52015
Trainer: Alan Wang
CHCPRT001 - Identify and Respond to Children and Young People at Risk
Question 16: List any five (5) principles of ethical decision making in an early childhood education
and care (ECEC) setting.
Answer:
Five principles of ethical decision-making in an early childhood education and care (ECEC) setting
include:
1. Respect for Autonomy: Respecting the rights and choices of children, families, and
colleagues.
2. Beneficence: Acting in the best interests of children's well-being and development.
3. Non-Maleficence: Avoiding harm or negative consequences in interactions and decisions.
4. Justice: Ensuring fairness and equality in access to resources, opportunities, and treatment.
5. Honesty and Integrity: Being truthful, transparent, and accountable in all professional
actions and communications.
Question 17: List any five (5) circumstances/ examples when you can apply principles of ethical
decision making in an early childhood education and care (ECEC) setting?
Answer:
Here are five circumstances/examples where principles of ethical decision-making can be applied in
an early childhood education and care (ECEC) setting:
1. Inclusion and Diversity: Ensuring equitable participation and support for children from
diverse backgrounds, including those with disabilities or special needs.
2. Confidentiality: Safeguarding sensitive information about children and families while also
ensuring appropriate communication among staff members.
3. Child Safety and Well-being: Making decisions that prioritize the physical, emotional, and
social safety of children, such as addressing bullying or preventing accidents.
4. Family Engagement: Respecting the rights and preferences of families while fostering
collaborative partnerships and involving them in decision-making processes regarding their
child's care and education.
5. Professional Boundaries: Maintaining appropriate boundaries in relationships with children,
families, and colleagues, ensuring interactions are respectful, professional, and free from
conflicts of interest.
Question 18: Explain in 50-100 words, how would you ensure compliance with child protection
regulations, legislation, relevant code of practice, licensing requirements, and duty of care
responsibilities?
Answer:
11
Student ID: 13745174
Unit ID: CHCDIV003
Course Code: CHC52015
Trainer: Alan Wang
CHCPRT001 - Identify and Respond to Children and Young People at Risk
To ensure compliance with child protection regulations, legislation, relevant code of practice,
licensing requirements, and duty of care responsibilities, I would adopt a multifaceted approach.
This would involve thorough staff training on child protection protocols and legal obligations,
regularly reviewing and updating policies and procedures to align with current regulations,
maintaining accurate records of incidents and interventions, conducting risk assessments, and
fostering a culture of vigilance and accountability within the organization. Additionally, establishing
clear lines of communication with relevant authorities and actively involving families in safeguarding
efforts would further strengthen compliance measures. Regular audits and assessments would also
be conducted to identify areas for improvement and ensure continuous adherence to best practices.
Question 19: Explain how each obligation/component listed in the job-specification provided by
an employing organization can influence the educator’s practice in an education and care setting?
Give any two (2) supporting statements.
Answer:
Influence on Practice: Educators with specific qualifications and training bring specialized
knowledge and skills to their roles, impacting the quality of care and education provided to
children.
Supporting Statement: For instance, an educator with a diploma in early childhood
education may have a deeper understanding of child development principles, enabling them
to create developmentally appropriate learning experiences.
Influence on Practice: Clearly defined responsibilities and duties outline educators' roles and
expectations, guiding their daily practices and interactions with children, families, and
colleagues.
Supporting Statement: If the job specification emphasizes the responsibility of creating a
safe and inclusive environment, educators may prioritize implementing strategies to ensure
all children feel valued and supported, fostering a sense of belonging within the setting.
Question 20: Explain National Quality Standard 2.3.4 and how it relates to the moral and ethical
obligations of all early childhood educators to report suspected risk of harm, regardless of the
nature and relationship with the child’s family? (50-100 words)
Reference: The Guide to the National Quality Standard http://files.acecqa.gov.au/files/National-
Quality-Framework-Resources-Kit/NQF-Resource-03-Guide-to-NQS.pdf
Answer:
National Quality Standard (NQS) 2.3.4 states that "Management, educators and staff are aware of
their roles and responsibilities to identify and respond to every child at risk of abuse or neglect." This
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Student ID: 13745174
Unit ID: CHCDIV003
Course Code: CHC52015
Trainer: Alan Wang
CHCPRT001 - Identify and Respond to Children and Young People at Risk
standard emphasizes the moral and ethical obligation of all early childhood educators to report
suspected risk of harm, regardless of their relationship with the child's family. It underscores the
importance of prioritizing child safety and well-being above all else, ensuring that any concerns
about potential harm are addressed promptly and appropriately, in accordance with legal and
regulatory requirements.
Answer:
13
Student ID: 13745174
Unit ID: CHCDIV003
Course Code: CHC52015
Trainer: Alan Wang
CHCPRT001 - Identify and Respond to Children and Young People at Risk
Question 22: List any four (4) internal or external influences that may affect persons values when
protecting the safety and wellbeing of children and young people.
Answer:
Certainly, here are four internal or external influences that may affect a person's values when
protecting the safety and wellbeing of children and young people:
1. Cultural Background: Cultural norms and values can significantly influence how individuals
perceive and prioritize child safety and wellbeing. For instance, cultures that prioritize
collectivism may emphasize community involvement in child-rearing, while individualistic
cultures may emphasize personal responsibility.
2. Religious Beliefs: Religious beliefs and teachings can shape attitudes towards child safety
and wellbeing. Different religions may have specific guidelines or moral principles regarding
the care and protection of children, influencing individuals' values and behaviours in this
regard.
3. Personal Experiences: Past experiences, including one's own childhood experiences or
experiences working with children, can profoundly impact values related to child safety and
wellbeing. Positive or negative experiences may shape beliefs about effective strategies for
protecting children and young people.
4. Media and Social Influences: Media portrayals and societal discourse can shape perceptions
of child safety and influence individuals' values and behaviours. News stories, social media
trends, and cultural representations of child safety issues can raise awareness, shape
attitudes, and influence individuals' actions in safeguarding children and young people.
These influences can vary greatly between individuals and communities, contributing to a diverse
range of perspectives on child safety and wellbeing.
Question 23: Identify the correct statement as helpful, somewhat helpful or unhelpful:
For each statement, indicate the response by ticking in the correct field that is child-focused
according to disclosure, duty of care responsibilities, ethical considerations, state legislative and
regulatory frameworks, organizational standards and policies and practices.
Answer:
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Student ID: 13745174
Unit ID: CHCDIV003
Course Code: CHC52015
Trainer: Alan Wang
CHCPRT001 - Identify and Respond to Children and Young People at Risk
Question 1: What risk factors can you identify in this scenario? Mention any four (4) risk factors.
Answer:
In this scenario, there are several risk factors that can be identified:
1. Health Risks: Twinkle's severe asthma poses a significant health risk. If her preventative
medication is not administered regularly, it could lead to more frequent and severe asthma
episodes, potentially endangering her life.
2. Parental Capacity and Disability: Natalie's mild intellectual disability may affect her ability to
provide adequate care for Twinkle, especially in managing her medical condition. This could
lead to neglect or improper administration of medication.
3. Social Isolation: Natalie and Twinkle have no contact with family or friends in Melbourne
and no engagement with local family support services. Social isolation can exacerbate
existing challenges and limit access to support networks.
4. Emotional Well-being and Depression: Natalie's episodes of depression may impact her
ability to provide consistent care and support for Twinkle. It could also affect her judgment
and decision-making, potentially leading to neglect or emotional harm for Twinkle.
Additionally, Natalie's feeling of Twinkle being a "burden" raises concerns about the
emotional environment within the household and the potential for negative impacts on
Twinkle's self-esteem and well-being.
Question 2: What are the signs and symptoms of “neglect” according to the scenario? Mention any
two (2) signs.
Answer:
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Student ID: 13745174
Unit ID: CHCDIV003
Course Code: CHC52015
Trainer: Alan Wang
CHCPRT001 - Identify and Respond to Children and Young People at Risk
2. Frequent Late Pick-ups from ECEC Centre: Natalie often coming late to pick up Twinkle from
the Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) centre is another sign of neglect. Consistent
tardiness in picking up a child from childcare can indicate a lack of attention to the child's
needs and well-being, potentially leading to feelings of insecurity and abandonment for the
child.
Question 3: How would you respond to disclosure, information and signs and symptoms you
observed and noticed according to the scenario? Mention any three (3) steps.
Answer:
Responding to the disclosure, information, and signs and symptoms observed in the scenario
requires a careful and empathetic approach. Here are three steps that could be taken:
Question 4: What age-appropriate, decision-making step you have employed based upon the
above scenario? Mention any one (1) step.
Answer:
Based on the scenario provided, an age-appropriate decision-making step that could be employed is:
16
Student ID: 13745174
Unit ID: CHCDIV003
Course Code: CHC52015
Trainer: Alan Wang
CHCPRT001 - Identify and Respond to Children and Young People at Risk
Reporter’s details
Reporter type: ECEC staff
Phone:
Email:
Family name
Given name/s
Place of birth
Gender
ATSI status
Cultural background
Street address
Suburb
Contact number
17
Student ID: 13745174
Unit ID: CHCDIV003
Course Code: CHC52015
Trainer: Alan Wang
CHCPRT001 - Identify and Respond to Children and Young People at Risk
Primary language:
Interpreter required No
Add person
Household details
Provide details of the household of concern including which children and parents/caregivers/other relevant
persons reside in this household.
Household 1
Household members:
Suspected child in need of protection concerns:
Type of abuse
(tick as many as apply)
Physical Abuse
Examples of physical abuse include hitting, shaking, throwing, burning, biting, poisoning, drowning, using a
weapon to inflict punishment.
Neglect
Examples of neglect include providing unhygienic or unsafe housing, failing to seek medical treatment when
required, insufficient supervision, providing insufficient food, clothing or bedding. It can also include failing to
act protectively in response to another person’s actions (e.g. allowing a convicted child sex offender to have
unsupervised contact with the child).
When did the incident/s of significant harm or risk of significant harm concerns occur (if known)?
What have you noticed about the child/ren and/or young person’s appearance?
This section aims to identify any presenting behaviors or appearance concerns which may be linked to abuse.
Examples include: showing wariness and distrust, rocking, sucking or biting, bedwetting or soiling, demanding
or aggressive behavior, sleeping difficulties, withdrawing from normal activities, self-harming, suicidal thoughts
and attempts, having unexplained bruising, being vague about an injury, being overly obedient, being reluctant
or fearful to go home, creating stories, poems or artwork about abuse, begging, stealing, hoarding, having
matted hair, dirty skin, strong body odor, frequent illness, infections or sores and presenting as underweight or
malnourished.
What have you noticed about the child/ren and/or young person’s behavior?
Does the child/ren have a current physical injury or experienced a previous physical injury as a result of the
incident/s?
In this section provide as much detail as known around any injury for example location, size, color, if child is
experiencing pain. If known, also provide details regarding any explanations given in regard to the injury
No
Are there any factors which may be impacting negatively on parents/caregiver's functioning?
For example, domestic violence, alcohol/substance misuse, disability, mental health instability,
physical/intellectual disability.
Yes
Is the parent/caregiver aware of the incident/s involving significant harm or risk of significant harm?
Unknown
What is the nature of your ongoing professional role, if any, with the child/ren, young person/s and their
parents/cares, and the frequency, duration and type (if applicable)?
What other services or supports are currently in place to support the child/ren, young person/s and their
parents/cares (If known)?
This can include family, friends, church, non-government organizations, government organizations who are
providing a service and/or supporting the family and/or children.
Additional Relevant Information (Not covered in above sections)?
Question 1: Why is it important to accurately record the incident for future reporting? Mention
any two (2) reasons.
Answer:
Accurately recording the incident of a child arriving with a broken arm, even if the explanation
provided seems plausible, is crucial for future reporting for the following reasons:
Question 2: Why you decided not to report the incident? Mention any one (1) reason based upon
the scenario.
Answer:
19
Student ID: 13745174
Unit ID: CHCDIV003
Course Code: CHC52015
Trainer: Alan Wang
CHCPRT001 - Identify and Respond to Children and Young People at Risk
Based on the scenario, one reason for deciding not to report the incident could be the lack of
concrete evidence or suspicion of intentional harm. While the child arrived with a broken arm and
the parent provided an explanation, without further evidence or indication of intentional harm, it
may be considered an isolated incident. Reporting such incidents without substantial reason could
potentially harm the relationship with the family and create unnecessary conflict.
Question 3: As an educator, what strategies would you implement straightaway based upon the
scenario. Mention any three (3) strategies.
Answer:
Based on the scenario described, there are several strategies you could implement as an educator to
address the situation:
1. Document and Monitor: As you've already begun, continue to thoroughly document the
incident according to your ECEC service's policies. Keep detailed records of the child's
behaviour, interactions, and any observations related to their well-being. Monitor the child
closely for any further signs of distress or injury.
2. Follow Up with the Family: Schedule a meeting with the Morris family to discuss the
incident in a non-confrontational and supportive manner. Express your concern for the
child's well-being and inquire further about the circumstances surrounding the injury. Offer
resources and support if needed, such as information on child safety or referrals to relevant
professionals.
3. Educate Staff and Raise Awareness: Use this incident as an opportunity to educate staff
members about the importance of following protocols and reporting any concerns regarding
child safety and welfare. Conduct training sessions or discussions on recognizing signs of
child abuse or neglect, and emphasize the responsibility of all staff members to ensure the
safety and well-being of the children in their care.
Question 4: As an educator, what moral dilemma you may experience based upon the above
scenario. Mention any one (1) dilemma.
Answer:
One moral dilemma that an educator may experience in this scenario is the conflict between loyalty
to the family and the duty to ensure the safety and well-being of the child. On one hand, there may
be a sense of loyalty and trust towards the Morris family, especially if they are well-respected within
the community. This loyalty may lead the educator to want to believe the family's explanation for
the child's injury and to avoid causing any distress or harm to the family by reporting the incident.
On the other hand, the educator has a professional and moral obligation to prioritize the safety and
welfare of the child above all else. This duty requires them to thoroughly investigate any incidents of
harm or potential harm to a child, regardless of the reputation or status of the family involved.
Failing to report the incident or to take appropriate action could put the child at risk of further harm
and could also undermine the trust and integrity of the early childhood education and care (ECEC)
centre.
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Student ID: 13745174
Unit ID: CHCDIV003
Course Code: CHC52015
Trainer: Alan Wang
CHCPRT001 - Identify and Respond to Children and Young People at Risk
Navigating this dilemma requires the educator to carefully balance their loyalty to the family with
their duty to protect the child, ensuring that they prioritize the child's safety and well-being above all
other considerations.
Question 1: What issues does this scenario raised for you. List any two (2) issues.
Answer:
1. Potential Child Physical Abuse: The reported injuries, raised welts across the back of
Jasmine's legs, suggest potential child physical abuse. This is a critical concern requiring
further assessment to ensure her safety and well-being.
2. Ineffective Discipline Strategy: The reported consequence for using the computer without
permission appears to be a form of corporal punishment. This method is generally
considered ineffective and potentially harmful. A more constructive approach to discipline is
needed.
Question 2: Will you report this incident to authorities? Answer yes and no, based upon the
mandatory reporting requirements and your duty of care responsibilities.
Answer:
Yes. Based on mandatory reporting requirements and duty of care, this incident should be reported
to the authorities.
Question 3: As an educator, what strategies would you implement straightaway based upon the
scenario. Mention any four (4) strategies.
Answer:
1. Establish a Safe and Confidential Space: Immediately create a safe and private environment
for Jasmine. Express your concern for her well-being and emphasize confidentiality. Assure
her that you are there to support her.
2. Active Listening and Validation: Actively listen to Jasmine's account without judgment. Use
empathetic language to validate her feelings. Clearly communicate that it's never
acceptable for someone to hit her.
3. Gather Information in a Non-Leading Manner: Employ open-ended questions to gain a
deeper understanding of the situation. This might include inquiring about the frequency of
similar incidents or her general sense of safety at home. Avoid leading questions that could
influence her responses.
21
Student ID: 13745174
Unit ID: CHCDIV003
Course Code: CHC52015
Trainer: Alan Wang
CHCPRT001 - Identify and Respond to Children and Young People at Risk
Question 1: Is this information enough for you to form a belief? Answer yes or no for this question.
Answer:
No
Answer:
With their Parents.
Question 3: What steps would you take according to the above-mentioned scenario? Mention any
two (2) steps.
Answer:
1. Ask questions: Find out more about the situation! Talk to people involved and gather details
to understand what's happening.
2. Come up with a plan: Based on what I learn, figure out how to address the situation. This
could involve fixing something, suggesting solutions, or proposing next steps.
Question 1: Is this information enough for you to form a belief? Answer yes or no for this question.
Answer:
Yes
Answer:
I should call someone who helps children, like Child Protective Services.
22
Student ID: 13745174
Unit ID: CHCDIV003
Course Code: CHC52015
Trainer: Alan Wang
CHCPRT001 - Identify and Respond to Children and Young People at Risk
Question 3: What steps would you take according to the above-mentioned scenario?
Mention any three (3) steps.
Answer:
1. Pick up the Phone: Give Child Protective Services (CPS) a ring. They're the experts at looking
out for kids, and they can check in on Sylevanna to make sure everything's okay.
2. Take Notes (for your memory): jot down things like how tired Sylevanna seems, the clothes
she wears, and anything she says about home. This helps CPS get a clearer picture.
3. Be a Light: Make the centre a happy place for Sylevanna. Play with her, offer her yummy
snacks and some rest time. Basically, show her that I care.
Project
Part-1
Describe the processes that must be followed if you suspect a child is at risk of abuse or
neglect.
Record your observations
Follow appropriate organisational protocols
Consult notes and records
Consult with appropriate colleagues if necessary
Consult with other support agencies if necessary
Follow mandatory reporting guidelines and procedures
What responsibility is there to inform the parent that a notification/report has been made?
No resposibilities to inform parents
23
Student ID: 13745174
Unit ID: CHCDIV003
Course Code: CHC52015
Trainer: Alan Wang
CHCPRT001 - Identify and Respond to Children and Young People at Risk
Identify the legislation and sources referred to when developing the Child Protection Policy.
ACEQA Fact Sheets
National Quality Standards
Relevant State legislation
Child Protection Advocacy groups for State
Part-2
If your concerns relate to a child of immediate protection or you have formed a belief that
a child is at significant risk of harm* Go to step number 4
If you have significant concerns that a child and their family need a referral, go to step
number 3
In all other situation, Go to step 2
24
Student ID: 13745174
Unit ID: CHCDIV003
Course Code: CHC52015
Trainer: Alan Wang
CHCPRT001 - Identify and Respond to Children and Young People at Risk
25
Student ID: 13745174
Unit ID: CHCDIV003
Course Code: CHC52015
Trainer: Alan Wang