How to Respond to an Abused Child If you suspect a child has been abused or neglected, use the following guidelines to respond. Remain calm. A child may retract information or stop talking if he/she senses strong reaction. Believe the child. Children rarely make up stories about abuse. Listen without passing judgment. Most children know their abusers and often have conflicted feelings. Tell the child you are glad that he/she told someone. Assure the child that abuse is not his/her fault. Do what you can to make certain that the child is safe from further abuse. Do not investigate a case yourself. Call the police or the Child and Family Services Agency hotline at (202) 671-SAFE (7233) to make a report.