FAQs
Clear Answers. Thoughtful Next Steps.
Understanding Reporting, Risk, and Response
Questions are a normal part of protecting children and strengthening families.
Whether you are a professional, community member, caregiver, or partner organization, you may have questions about reporting, substance use, coordinated response, or available resources.
This section provides clear information to help you make informed decisions with confidence.
If you do not see your question here, you can always contact KADEC for guidance.
What organization is behind Look Again?
Look Again is led by the Kansas Alliance for Drug Endangered Children (KADEC), a statewide multidisciplinary collaboration formed in 2003.
KADEC brings together state agencies, law enforcement, healthcare providers, educators, child welfare professionals, and community partners to improve outcomes for children affected by substance misuse.
The mission of KADEC is to empower Kansas communities through education, training, and coordinated response. The vision is a Kansas where all children have the opportunity to thrive in safe and stable environments.
What is a drug endangered child?
A drug endangered child (DEC) is a child who lives in an environment where substance use, misuse, manufacturing, or distribution places their safety, health, or development at risk.
Substances may include alcohol, prescription medications, cannabis, methamphetamine, opioids, or other drugs. Risk can involve neglect, unsafe environments, emotional trauma, or developmental harm.
Substance misuse does not define a child’s future. Early recognition and coordinated support improve outcomes.
Do I need proof to report a concern in Kansas?
No. You do not need proof to make a report.
In Kansas, a report can be made when there is reasonable suspicion that a child may be at risk. Trained professionals assess the situation after a report is received.
If something feels concerning, it is appropriate to contact the Kansas Protection Report Center.
What if I am not sure and do not want to overreact?
If something feels off, trust that instinct.
You are not expected to investigate. You are not expected to diagnose. You are expected to share what you observed and why you are concerned.
Reasonable concern is enough to make a report.
What happens after a report is made?
After a report is submitted, child welfare professionals assess:
- Immediate safety concerns
- Level of risk
- Appropriate next steps
Not every report results in removal from the home. The primary goal is child safety and family stabilization whenever safely possible.
Understanding this process can reduce hesitation about reporting concerns.
Can reports be made confidentially?
Reporter information is protected under Kansas confidentiality laws. Intake staff can explain what protections apply in your situation.
Is this campaign about criminalizing parents?
No. The Look Again campaign focuses on child safety, early identification, and coordinated support. Substance use disorder is a complex health condition. The goal is not punishment, but protection and stabilization for children and families.
Is substance misuse always illegal?
No. Substance misuse can involve illegal drugs, prescription medications, alcohol, or other legal substances used in unsafe ways.
The focus of the DEC approach is child safety, not the legal status of a substance.
What are the signs a child may be affected by substance misuse?
Common signs can include:
- Sudden changes in behavior
- Chronic absenteeism
- Developmental delays
- Signs of neglect
- Disclosure of unsafe environments
If you are concerned, you do not need proof. You need reasonable suspicion.
What if a child is in immediate danger?
Who should use this website?
This website is designed for:
- First responders
- Healthcare professionals
- Educators
- Social service providers
- Community members
- Parents and caregivers
Anyone who interacts with children in Kansas can play a role in noticing risk and responding appropriately.
How is Look Again different from other awareness campaigns?
Look Again emphasizes:
- Early recognition
- Trauma-informed response
- Cross-system collaboration
- Kansas-specific coordination
- Actionable guidance for professionals
It is not only about awareness. It is about helping Kansans take meaningful steps that protect children.
Is there a national Drug Endangered Children organization?
Yes. The National Alliance for Drug Endangered Children supports state alliances across the country by providing research, training, and coordination resources.
KADEC is Kansas’ state-level alliance.
How can I get involved?
You can:
- Visit your professional resource page
- Join a county DEC alliance
- Share campaign materials
- Participate in training
- Contact KADEC to learn more
Every role matters.
Still Have Questions?
You don’t have to solve this alone. Kansas has a coordinated system designed to support children and families. Your role is to notice and respond.
The Kansas Alliance for Drug Endangered Children is a statewide multidisciplinary network formed in 2003 to improve outcomes for children impacted by substance misuse through training, collaboration, and coordinated response.