How to Report a Problem or Abuse

North Carolina law requires staff from the North Carolina Division of Child Development to investigate a licensed family child care home or child care center when there has been a complaint. Child care providers who violate the law or rules may be fined up to $1,000 and may have their licenses or registration certificates suspended or revoked.

If you believe that a child care provider fails to meet the requirements described above, or if you have questions, please call the Division of Child Development at 919-662-4527 or 1-800-859-0829.

Child Abuse or Neglect
Abuse occurs when a parent or caregiver injures or allows another to injure a child physically or emotionally. Abuse may also occur when a parent or caregiver puts a child at risk of serious injury or allows another to put a child at risk of serious injury. Neglect occurs when a child does not receive proper care, supervision, or discipline, or when a child is abandoned. North Carolina law requires any person who suspects child abuse or neglect to report the case to the county department of social services.

In addition, any person can call the North Carolina Division of Child Development at 919-662-4527 or 1-800-859-0829 and make a report of suspected child abuse or neglect in a child care center or home. Reports can be made anonymously. A person cannot be held liable for a report made in good faith.