Common Cover-Ups of Sexual Abuse at Daycare

I want to address a deeply concerning and distressing topic – the common cover-ups of sexual abuse at daycare facilities.

Sexual abuse is a horrifying crime, and sadly, it continues to occur at daycares throughout Texas. Today, we want to highlight some common cover-up tactics that perpetrators and daycares may use.

Commonly Used Tactics to Cover Up Sexual Abuse

First is intimidation tactics:

Fear and intimidation are often powerful tools for covering up abuse. Daycare staff or administrators might discourage or even threaten children from speaking out, instilling fear of consequences. This might show when kids suddenly become secretive and fearful. Look out for any unusual behavior your child might be displaying.

Second is lying about physical injuries

Some abusers attempt to cover up the physical sexual abuse injuries by claiming the injuries happened because of another child, or they may even blame the child’s parents and say the injuries happened at home. It’s important that you note any unusual injuries that you notice on your child, as they could be a sign of a greater issue.

Third - lying about changes in behavior

Some caregivers who cover up their sexual abuse crimes may blame changes in your child’s behavior on something else, like adjusting to daycare or having trouble with other kids. It’s important that you investigate these behavioral changes. The most common behavioral changes that we’ve seen include:

• Anxiety about returning to the daycare,
• Fear of being around certain caregivers,
• Discomfort during diaper changes, baths, or changing of clothes,
• Unusual knowledge of sexual matters,
• Or uneasiness about being touched or held

The fourth common cover-up of sexual abuse at daycare is negligent investigations:

Inadequate internal investigations can be a cover-up tactic. Daycare directors may conduct superficial or biased investigations into the claims of sexual abuse in an attempt to protect the institution rather than prioritizing the child's safety.

What Parents Need to Know About Sexual Abuse Cover-Ups at Daycare

It's crucial for parents to be aware of these cover-up tactics and know their rights if they suspect their child is a victim of sexual abuse. If you suspect abuse or encounter resistance from the daycare in addressing your concerns, it's time to take action.

We understand the gravity of this topic. If you're grappling with suspicions or have questions about daycare abuse, don't hesitate to seek legal guidance. Our team at The Button Law Firm is experienced in helping families get answers and move forward after abuse by a caregiver.

If you’re not quite ready to speak to us but want to learn more about potential next steps, be sure to download our free guide, 5 Steps to Take After a Daycare Injury. It’s linked here.

If you have additional concerns or need assistance in navigating this distressing situation, be sure to reach out to us. At The Button Law Firm, we're committed to protecting children and seeking justice. We’re here to help you and your family keep moving forward.