Definition
Neglect is the failure by parents or caretakers to provide a child with necessary food, shelter, clothing, or medical care. Neglect also includes failure to ensure that a child is educated, although this does not include a parent's refusal to provide the child with nervous system stimulant medication. This refers to stimulant medications commonly used to treat Attention Deficit Disorder and Attention Disorder Hyperactivity Disorder.
Neglect also may occur when the person responsible for the child's care fails to protect the child from conditions or actions that seriously endanger the child's physical or mental health when reasonably able to do so.
In addition, neglect includes failure to provide for appropriate supervision or child care arrangements after considering the child's age, mental ability, physical condition, length of absence, or environment.