Childhood is a very sensitive period, in which a child must learn and develop in a healthy environment. However, child abuse can leave a very bad impact on the child’s mental health, and may negatively affect his proper development. Physical abuse is a form of abuse that adults may use in dealing with children. In this article, we will talk about child physical abuse meaning, signs, effects and ways to deal with a child physically abused.

What does child physical abuse mean?
Child physical abuse is when someone hurts or harms a child on purpose, and this may include hitting with hands or objects, slapping, punching, kicking, throwing, biting or practicing any form of violence on a child.

Signs that indicate a child might be physically abused
Bruises on a child do not necessarily mean that he/she is being physically abused. All children may have accidents like falls or so. However, if a child has injuries regularly and repeatedly, you should be aware of the other signs that may include:
• Any type of physical injury, such as bruises, fractures, burns, or bite marks.
• Scarring
• Dehydration
• Breathing problems from suffocating
• Always wearing clothes that cover the arms and legs, even in warm weather
• Vomiting, drowsiness, or seizures, which can indicate poisoning
• Child refuses or is afraid of going home

What to do if a child confides in you?
If a child tells that they are being physically abused, it is important to know that they might blame themselves for what is happening, or may even do not know that what is they are being subjected to is wrong:
• Do not panic and try not to look shocked. Remain as calm as possible when talking or listening to the child.
• Listen carefully to what the child says and encourage them to speak, but do not pressure the child to speak more than they are willing to.
• If you want to learn more information from the child, avoid asking specific questions. Ask open questions, such as how often does the abuse happen.
• Tell the child that what is happening to them is not their fault, and let them know that they did the right thing by telling you.
• Let the child know that you believe  him/her and that you want to help them, and be as reassuring as you can.
• Avoid confronting the abuser because the situation may escalate and make it worse for the child.
• Try to write down notes of what the child is telling you and write all the information you can about the child, such as name, age, and home address.
• Do not delay contacting local authorities or child protection services. Let the child know that you are telling someone who can help them.

Physical abuse can have many dire effects on children, and it is something no child should go through.