Disheartening as it is, child abuse and neglect is a rampant issues in the country. According to the CDC, 1 in 7 children experienced abuse and neglect last year. Therefore, it is essential to recognize the early warning signs of child neglect to tackle this problem at its roots. This can take more than one form and manifest as physical, emotional, educational, or medical neglect. Here are some early warning signs to watch out for: Poor appearance and hygiene This may include the child being smelly or dirty, hungry, not being given money for food, having unwashed clothes, having inappropriate clothing for the weather, or having frequent or untreated nappy rashes (in infants). Health and development problems These issues may include anemia, poor muscle tone, prominent joints, medical or dental issues, missed medical appointments, poor language or social skills, recurring infections, repeated accidental injuries caused by a lack of supervision, skin issues such as sores, rashes, flea bites, scabies or ringworm, thin or swollen tummy, tiredness, untreated injuries, and growth issues. Housing and family issues Some of these warning signs may include the child living in unsuitable housing conditions, such as no heating or running water, being left alone for long periods, not having a curfew or bedtime, or taking on the role of carer for other family members.

Divorce settlements and custody battles can stretch out for several months or even years, depending on the nature of the case. Once the proceedings have been initiated, your personal and professional life will also come under the direct scrutiny of the law. Willingly or unknowingly, you might say or do something that affects the case proceedings and the final verdict. So, here are ten pitfalls to avoid when the case is still in court. Refusing to cooperate Divorce hearings are difficult for both parties. But refusing to cooperate with your spouse to reach a mutual agreement only makes matters worse. Not hiring an experienced attorney Divorce proceedings can get complicated as time passes. So, you must have an experienced attorney on your side who has won a few cases at the least. Losing your calm Certain arguments can spiral out of control. But any inappropriate behavior in court can swing the case in favor of the aggrieved party. Badmouthing your spouse The children are the ones deeply affected by divorce proceedings and custody battles. It will only make things worse if you paint a negative picture about your spouse to swing the custody battle in your favor. Withholding information It is morally wrong and illegal to withhold information privy to both spouses caught up in a divorce settlement.

Today, children are exposed to the Internet pretty early on, so it is important to help them embrace this technology with responsibility. There are pros and cons to introducing the Internet to young minds. However, teaching them how to navigate the online world and learn appropriate online etiquette can help keep them safe. They should also learn how to be responsible to make better decisions online and avoid misusing devices. Make online profiles private If a child is using a social media platform, it is important for caregivers to go through these sites to understand how they work. Part of this is learning about the privacy policy of the platform. Here, it is important to teach the child to keep their personal informal private and limit their online interaction to the people that they know. Strangers should not be allowed access to the child’s profile, and any friend or follow requests should simply be denied. Use strong passwords It is crucial for children to know how to set a strong password for their profile so that their account does not get hacked. They should also change the password regularly to keep the account safe from unauthorized access and keep personal information private.

Veterans are distinguished individuals who have previously served in the military, naval, or air services. Consequently, they have earned a range of benefits to support them in leading civilian lives. These benefits could come in handy in the long run by helping with finances. However, not everyone may be aware of the available benefits that they are entitled to receive, thereby missing out on essential support. So, here are a few lesser-known veteran benefits: 1. Life insurance Securing life insurance is an essential step that assures financial stability for loved ones. Veterans can get life insurance from the Department of Veteran Affairs or VA. A few options include the Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (SGLI), Veterans Group Life Insurance (VGLI), and Family Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (FSGLI). 2. Mortgage assistance Veterans can avail of the VA’s Home Loan Guaranty Benefit. Although provided by private lenders, the VA guarantees a portion of the loan, which allows lenders to offer veterans more favorable terms for the loan. This benefit can be reused for purchases of primary residences and even for refinancing existing home loans. 3. Free tax preparation As a veteran, one has access to certain resources that could simplify the tax preparation process and help them maximize their returns free of charge.