ARKANSAS
curated resources for Christian ministries striving to prevent child abuse
What is Considered Child Abuse in the State of Arkansas
“Child abuse” includes non-accidental physical injury, mental injury, sexual abuse or exploitation, or abandonment by those legally responsible for the child’s care. “Neglect” means failure to provide education, medical or surgical care, or necessary support. Treatment by spiritual means alone is not neglect if done according to the tenets of a recognized church and by an accredited practitioner.
(Source: Definitions of Child Abuse & Neglect, Child Welfare Information Gateway – Arkansas & Arkansas Child Abuse & Neglect Prevention Act, § 9-30-103)
Requirements for Churches and Clergy
Clergy – including ministers, priests, rabbis, Christian Science practitioners, or others in similar roles—are mandated reporters. They must report suspected child maltreatment when they have reasonable cause to suspect the child has been or is being harmed, has died due to maltreatment, or is exposed to conditions likely to result in harm. Privileged communications may apply only for spiritual confession / counseling when required by church discipline.
(Source: Child Welfare Information Gateway – Clergy as Mandatory Reporters in Arkansas & Arkansas Department of Human Services (“How to Report Child Abuse & Neglect”)
Mandatory Reporting Laws
Under Arkansas law (Ann. Code § 12-18-402), a mandated reporter (including clergy) must immediately notify the Child Abuse Hotline if they suspect child maltreatment or death associated with maltreatment. Reporting can be done via telephone, online portal, or hotline. Employers or supervisors may not prevent or require permission before mandated reporters make a report.
(Source: Arkansas Department of Human Services – How to Report Child Abuse & Neglect & Child Welfare Information Gateway – Mandatory Reporting Arkansas & Mandated Reporter Portal (Arkansas))
Definitions and Prevention Requirements
Definitions include physical abuse, mental/emotional injury, sexual abuse or exploitation, neglect, and abandonment. Churches are encouraged to maintain prevention programs and policies. Training for mandated reporters is available via the Arkansas online course. Churches should ensure clergy and volunteers understand warning signs, mandated duties, and use resources such as the Mandated Reporter Portal and hotline.
(Source: Child Welfare Definitions & Arkansas Mandated Reporter Portal)
SCHOOL GUIDELINES
Who Must Report in Schools?
All school personnel—including teachers, administrators, coaches, and volunteers—are mandated reporters under Arkansas law. Anyone in a school setting with reasonable cause to suspect child maltreatment must report directly to the Child Abuse Hotline or via the Mandated Reporter Portal.
(Source: Arkansas Department of Human Services – How to Report Child Abuse & Neglect )
Mandatory Reporting Laws
School employees must report immediately when they suspect abuse, neglect, exploitation, or abandonment. Reports may be made going through the hotline or via the online mandated reporter portal. The law prevents prohibiting or delaying reports (i.e. no requirement for permission from supervisors).
(Source: Child Welfare Information Gateway – Mandatory Reporting Arkansas )
Definitions and Prevention Requirements
Definitions for school contexts are same as state definitions: physical, sexual abuse, neglect, etc. Schools should provide training resources via Arkansas Commission on Child Abuse, Rape and Domestic Violence and DHS; educators are offered modules to recognize and respond to abuse and neglect.
(Source: Identifying and Responding to Signs of Child Maltreatment, Arkansas PBS / Arkansas State Police)
Public Health Context: Child Abuse in Alabama
Recently Arkansas received roughly 65,000 reports of suspected child maltreatment in a year. Over 29,000 of those were investigated. More than 6,600 children were confirmed as victims. Most cases involved neglect, physical abuse, or sexual abuse.
How to make a report in the state of Arkansas
To report child abuse or neglect in Arkansas:
Call the Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-482-5964 (TDD: 1-800-843-6349), or if you are a mandated reporter you can submit a report through a secure online portal at mandatedreporter.arkansas.gov. Please give as much information about the incident, the victim, and the alleged perpetrator as possible.
Uncompromising Protection: Elevating Child Safety Standards
Uncompromising Protection: Elevating Child Safety Standards
Uncompromising Protection: Elevating Child Safety Standards
Uncompromising Protection: Elevating Child Safety Standards
Uncompromising Protection: Elevating Child Safety Standards
Uncompromising Protection: Elevating Child Safety Standards
In a world where child protection is paramount, ECAP is elevating child protection standards, ensuring a secure and nurturing environment in Christian ministries.
Every aspect of life adheres to specific standards – whether it be technology, education, finances, or industry practices.
In Jesus’ teachings, He imparted immense value to children, emphasizing the significance of their well-being. Reflecting on this profound truth, a compelling question emerges: Shouldn’t child protection be upheld to an even higher standard than these other areas, considering the blessing of children?
Join Us in the Fight to Protect the Next Generation.
Transforming child safety measures, ECAP is empowering Christian churches, schools, and camps nationwide to embrace an elevated standard of care.
Together, let’s shield our children from harm and create a brighter, safer tomorrow!
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Information updated on 8.17.2025
