Through early detection and intervention, practitioners can support individual students. As advocates they can promote system level preparation including training about the identification of possible indicators of maltreatment, as well as the short- and long-term implications of child maltreatment on student learning and success.

Workshop Objectives:

This session will help participants

1. explain the prevalence and outcomes associated with child maltreatment,
2. describe the legal and ethical foundations of their roles as mandated reporters,
3. collaborate more effectively with community partners to support children and families, and
4. draw clear connections between the role of mandated reporting and several standards within the NASP Practice Model.

Prerequisite Knowledge

None specifically, as the session is applicable for those with and without experience with child maltreatment and is designed to help them advocate for system change. However, it will be helpful if they know—or can at least identify—the relevant stakeholders they will need to approach to initiate discussions, and so they can begin to draft action steps tailored to those stakeholders.

Practical Tools

Identification of warning signs of child maltreatment leading to earlier intervention and support; legal and ethical bases to advocate for system change focusing on prevention and early intervention; enhanced professional practice with increased understanding of the short- and long-term implications of child maltreatment; knowledge of reporting process and ability to prepare for likely outcomes.