Every day in the United States, three children die as a result of maltreatment in the home, and child abuse is reported, on average, every ten seconds. This year, approximately three million cases of child abuse will be reported. However, most experts believe the actual number of instances is three times that number.

Often, people do not report abuse because they are afraid - afraid that abuse is none of their business, or that they must be absolutely certain that abuse is happening before making a report. They fear that a child will be taken from his or her home and placed into a worse situation. They second-guess themselves: Perhaps it is a one-time occurrence? The other children seem to be treated well so why would the parent single out one child for abuse? There is even the fear of getting involved, due in part to not knowing whether you will have to disclose your identity to make a report. The experience of suspecting and reporting child abuse is lonely, overwhelming, and sometimes frightening.

However, there are anonymous and confidential places to turn to for information about reporting suspected abuse. Americans should trust their instincts and act on behalf of a child, because organizations such as Childhelp USA can offer the support and information necessary to help transform a child's life.