Although federal legislation provides basic guidelines for definitions of child abuse and neglect, each state has specific laws. State statutes describe abuse in terms of "harm or threatened harm" to a child and mandate when to intervene. Exemptions vary by each state but can include a religious exemption, corporal punishment, poverty, and cultural practices. States usually provide separate definitions for different types of abuse and neglect. It is important for educators to become familiar with the statutes of their state.

Being abused and/or neglected can have a long-term negative impact on children. They have an increased risk of being developmentally delayed and experiencing social and emotional difficulties. Abused children are more likely than the general population to use drugs, become violent, and engage in delinquent behaviour.

Educators are mandated by law to report suspected cases to the local child protective services agency or to the police department. Since abused and neglected children are represented in most classrooms, teachers and other school employees need to become aware of the signs of abuse. However, one indication is usually not enough; a cluster of symptoms needs to be observed before a report is made. Dated, written observations of concerns for a child are extremely helpful when reporting.

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