Perspectives
Infants are one of the most vulnerable groups of children referred to statutory child welfare systems, a fact research continues to reinforce. These practice triggers, developed as an enhancement to the practice frameworks, ensure a focus on the vulnerable infant and encourage decision making and an assessment that is focused on infants’ safety and wellbeing. The triggers are designed to be used throughout the intake and investigation process.
Supporting practice focusing on vulnerable infant intake and investigation phases
- Those who don’t cruise rarely bruise. (Sugar, 1999)
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Bruises are extremely rare in infants who are younger than 6 months and are distinctly uncommon in perambulatory infants who are younger than 9 months. Infants aged between 6 and 9 months may develop bruises as they begin to cruise. When infants begin to cruise, the frequency of bruises increases and bruises located in certain sites may be an expected finding. Bruises on the anterior lower leg and knee, as well as the upper leg and forehead, are common in cruising and walking toddlers. Bruises on the cheek, back, chest and upper arm are much less commonly observed but may be seen in infants as they begin to walk independently. Bruises on the abdomen, buttocks, hands and feet are extremely rare in both infants and toddlers. Bruises that are not over bony prominences are uncommon (Sugar, 1999).
- ‘At birth the baby’s brain is only 15% developed. Most of a baby’s brain development actually occurs after the birth - in the first three years of life. It is the child’s experiences during these years that enable the brain to grow. In particular, it is relationally-rich experiences which provide children with the ‘brain-food’ they need to grow into happy, secure and well functioning adults. Poor experiences during this time can have lasting negative effects on a child’s brain…and who they can become.’ Brainwave Trust 2006.
