In cases of abuse, neglect, or exploitation allegations, who must be notified and in what order?

• A. To Licensing As soon as you become aware, then to Parents after ensuring safety, Not to Law Enforcement.
• B. To Licensing within 24 hours, then to Law Enforcement within 24 hours, then to Parents within 24 hours.
• C. To Law Enforcement first, then to Licensing within 24 hours, then to Parents.
• D. To Parents first, then to Licensing within 24 hours, then to Law Enforcement.

Answer: (A)

When abuse, neglect, or exploitation is alleged in a setting under licensing, the first step is to notify the licensing authority immediately and then inform the child’s parents after safety has been addressed. This sequence centers on regulatory oversight and child protection: the licensing body coordinates the official response, documents the report, and guides the investigation. Only after safeguarding the child should parents be told, to avoid tipping off potential wrongdoing or compromising the investigation. Law enforcement involvement may occur if required by policy or if criminal activity is suspected, but it is not the initial notification in this sequence.