Police visit after report about toddler being in window looking 'dirty'

[StarryNight267]

Someone called the police because my 3 yr old was playing in the window (supervised) and they thought he looked dirty.
They came, I explained the situation, gave examples of why he likes to look out the window, confirmed he's never alone when he does so despite what the reporter of this has said. Explained that he's 3 and likes to play and be messy and that he is obviously bathed regularly because of this.
I'm so upset and stressed by this. What on earth can I expect following on from this?

If there’s no reason for concern then theres really nothing to be worried about. The
I still think someone being worried for a child’s well being is right to report it though

Were the police satisfied with your explanation? Did they explain what would happen next?

They seemed very understanding and a bit sheepish about the questions they were having to ask. I explained the situation. They said they have to log it and then I may get a call from another agency etc. To see if we need support. It was just quite scary and distressing. There's been a lot going on recently with some family loss so it's just added additional stress and worry. Never experienced anything like this before.

I think it just shocked and upset me cos it's not something I've ever experienced or ever thought I would.

Isn't it better that they check on reports that turn out to be nothing than that they ignore reports that end up being serious. Your distress and upset is a price worth paying if it prevents another child being neglected or abused. If you love and care for your child they would have seen that and you'll hear nothing more.

Well it sounds like they did what they have to do and all is fine. I suppose it is a bit odd for a toddler to be ‘playing’ in the window a lot. Obviously the person who reported it thought the child was on their own all the time.

I know it would be stressful op but I for one am so reassured the police came to check it out.

It might be upsetting for you but better for DC if anyone worried reports and it can be checked out. Now it's checked and everything is fine.

Oh dear lord. The police etc have to follow up on the no doubt well-meant report, but sounds like it was from someone who had no idea about toddlers. My ‘bible’ when dd was small was the wonderfully sensible Baby and Child by Penelope Leach, which I’m pretty sure suggested that an active toddler should be mucky by the end of the day unless it had included swimming.

Police have to act on what they are told, especially if they have been told a child may be in danger.

Clearly you were able to reassure them that the report was incorrect and that your child was not in danger.

Do you think the person reporting believed your child to be in danger or is there any possibility of malicious reporting?

You might get some contact from children's social services, likely a phone call, but they should also have access to information from the police that you were there and able to talk to them

@StarryNight267 Please be reassured that this action was taken entirely to keep your child safe.

There have been several situations where a child has been left alone in a house after their family members have become ill or have died and no one has been aware of the child.

That is why the police came.

I'm not against reporting in the slightest. It's great that they do follow up. Doesn't make it any less of a worrying experience though. Especiallu given that the house is full of heightened emotions right now cos we're grieving. Never thought it would be something I'd have to deal with. He was essentially stood on my lap while I'm in an armchair looking out the window and waving at people and cars. With paint on him and most possibly some jam from his toast 😂* *

Good point about a toddler might be alone as the parent has collapsed or something which does happen occasionally.

Thank you for the responses! I was mostly just concerned about what happens next cos they weren't able to say much about it.