Child Protective Service Units

Lehigh County has two units designated to investigate child abuse and a unit to provide ongoing services for families dealing with the long-term effects of child abuse.   The units are located at the Child Advocacy Center. The Child Advocacy Center is a place where victims of abuse can feel safe and supported during the investigation process.

What is child abuse? “Abuse” means any willful act that results in any physical, mental, or sexual injury that causes or is likely to cause the child’s physical, mental, or emotional health to be significantly impaired. ( §415.503).

What is child neglect? “Neglect” means a caregiver’s failure or omission to provide a child with the care, supervision and services necessary to maintain the child’s physical and mental health. Neglect is also the failure to protect a child from abuse, neglect, or exploitation by another person.

Report of Suspected Child Abuse Form

TURNING CHOICES

Create routines for your family around homework, bed time and meal times

Hitting doesn’t work as well as talking. Discipline rather than punish

Omit violent and inappropriate movies and TV shows from your home

 Involve your family and children in community functions and charitable activities

Computers should be located in the living room or other central location

Eat meals together as a family at least once a day

Say “I love you” everyday

INTO CHANGE

Children should have regular medical visits, starting before they are born

Hug and praise your child when they are good

Avoid illegal drugs and excessive use of alcohol

Never leave your children under the care of people you do not know and trust

Give your family a wide variety of healthful foods to promote good nutrition

Exercise as a family regularly. Play is a great way to do it together!