What happens if a child is suspected of experiencing neglect?

When a child is suspected of experiencing neglect, the appropriate course of action is to make a report to the local department of social services or the child protective services. This is essential because the local department has the responsibility and authority to investigate allegations of neglect and ensure the child's safety and well-being. Reporting helps to initiate an assessment of the child's living situation and determine if intervention is necessary to protect the child.

Taking no action would leave the child in a harmful environment, and solely notifying the parents would not address the issue since they may be the source of the neglect. Moving the child to another home could be a potential outcome but is not the immediate step taken upon suspicion of neglect; it typically occurs after an investigation determines that the child's safety is at risk. Thus, making a report to the local department is the critical first step in safeguarding the child's welfare and providing necessary support or intervention.