Important 2024 Update: The updated required child abuse training provides New York mandated reporters the tools to recognize and report instances of suspected child abuse or maltreatment. Recent amendments to Social Services Law § 413 prompted the New York State Office of Children and Family Services to update the curriculum to include trauma, adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), bias in decision-making, and identification of abuse/maltreatment virtually.
All mandated reporters are required to (re)take this workshop by April 1, 2025.
Child abuse is a tragic reality that affects countless children across the world. In an effort to protect and safeguard vulnerable children, the state of New York has implemented important updates to its mandated reporter requirements. These changes aim to enhance child safety and ensure that abuse is reported promptly, allowing swift intervention and support for those in need.
Where can I take the updated New York Child Abuse Training?
Wild Iris Medical Education is an approved provider with the NYSED and offers the 2024 updated Child Abuse Mandated Training for New York State course.
This course is approved by the New York State Education Department (provider ID #80607) and fulfills the requirement for mandated reporter training in identifying and reporting child abuse, maltreatment, and neglect in the state of New York. The course has been updated to include recent amendments to Social Services Law § 413 requiring the addition of training on adverse childhood experiences and trauma, implicit bias, and identification of child abuse virtually. It also includes a required pre-test to assess knowledge prior to taking the course.
A certificate of completion for two (2) contact hours will be provided. Wild Iris Medical Education reports automatically to the NYSED within 24 hours after course completion.
Understanding the Updated Mandated Reporter Requirement in New York
Child abuse goes beyond physical harm, encompassing aspects such as neglect, emotional abuse, and sexual exploitation. The updated New York child abuse mandated reporter requirement recognizes this broader definition and now mandates individuals who work closely with children to report any suspected abuse or maltreatment. While this includes professionals like teachers, doctors, and social workers, it also extends the responsibility to people who regularly interact with children, such as coaches, mentors, and volunteers.
Who is required to take the New York mandated reporter training?
Training related to child abuse is required for the following professions:
- Certified Behavior Analyst Assistants
- Chiropractors
- Creative Arts Therapists
- Dental Hygienists
- Dentists
- Licensed Behavior Analysts
- Licensed Clinical Social Workers
- Licensed Master Social Workers
- Marriage and Family Therapists
- Mental Health Counselors
- Optometrists
- Physicians
- Podiatrists
- Psychoanalysts
- Psychologists
- Registered Nurses
Training related to NYS child abuse reporting requirements must be completed for the following certificate areas regardless of the certificate or license type (e.g. Initial/Professional, Reissuance/Renewal, Permanent/Professional, Transitional):
- Classroom Teachers
- Career and Technical Teachers
- School Building Leaders
- School District Leaders
- School Counselors
- School Social Workers
- School District Business Leaders
- School Psychologist
- School Nurse
- School Dental Hygiene
- School Attendance
- School Administration and Supervision
- Teaching Assistants
- Coaches
- Adult Education Instructors
- JROTC Instructors
- Visiting Lecturer Licenses
The primary objective of this update is to broaden the scope of individuals who are mandated to report abuse, ensuring that signs of maltreatment are promptly identified and reported. By broadening the range of mandated reporters, New York is taking a vital step toward creating an environment that is equally safe for all children.
What updates have been implemented for the New York Child Abuse Training Requirement?
Updated Mandated Reporter Training Requirements: Chapter 56 of the Laws of 2021 amended Social Services Law § 413 to require:
- Additional training to include protocols to reduce implicit bias in decision-making processes
- Strategies for identifying adverse childhood experiences
- Guidelines to assist in recognizing signs of abuse or maltreatment while interacting virtually within the New York State Mandated Identification and Reporting of Child Abuse and Maltreatment/Neglect coursework.
When does the new mandated reporter training go into effect?
Soc. Serv. Law § 413(5) requires that mandated reporters, including those who have previously undergone the current training, complete the updated training curriculum by April 1, 2025.
How often is mandated reporter training required in NY?
Even though the New York required Child Abuse Training is a one-time requirement, new 2024 law updates require each mandated reporter to take the updated and new version of the training prior to April 1, 2025, to be in compliance.
The Significance of Prompt Reporting and Early Intervention
Prompt reporting of child abuse is critical to ensuring the timely intervention and support required to protect young lives. By making reporting mandatory, New York emphasizes the importance of recognizing signs of abuse and taking immediate action. Reports made by mandated reporters serve as the initial step toward investigating allegations and ensuring appropriate interventions are put in place.
Early intervention can significantly mitigate the long-term effects of abuse and create an environment conducive to a child’s physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Moreover, mandated reporting plays a vital role in holding perpetrators accountable, preventing further harm, and helping victims heal. By recognizing the significance of prompt reporting, New York seeks to create a community that values and prioritizes the safety of its children.
Strengthening Collaborative Efforts and Supporting Mandated Reporters
The updated mandated reporter requirement in New York not only increases the number of individuals mandated to report abuse but also emphasizes the importance of collaborative efforts and support for these reporters. As child abuse can sometimes be a complex issue, mandating reporters to work collectively with child protection agencies helps ensure efficient and effective investigations.
To support mandated reporters, NYSED has approved Wild Iris Medical Education’s training program to equip professionals and individuals alike with the knowledge and skills necessary to identify and respond to child abuse. Additionally, the state has implemented strict protocols to guarantee the utmost confidentiality for those who make reports in good faith. These measures aim to encourage reporting, create a safer environment for both children and mandated reporters, and to foster a collaborative network for protecting children against abuse.
Conclusion
Child abuse is an abhorrent act that demands our unwavering attention and prompt action. The updated mandated reporter requirement in New York stands as a testament to the state’s commitment to child safety and protection. By expanding the scope of mandated reporters, emphasizing prompt reporting, and fostering collaborative efforts, New York has taken significant strides toward ensuring a safer environment for all children.
As healthcare professionals and individuals, we must recognize our role in protecting children from abuse and fulfill our obligations as mandated reporters. Together, we can create communities that are vigilant, committed, and responsive in safeguarding the welfare and future of our youngest members. By working in unison, we can build a society where children can flourish, free from the horrors of abuse and neglect.
