Which of the following is appropriate to share with authorities when reporting, if possible?

• A. The child's address
• B. The child's name and caregiver
• C. Your own favorite color
• D. The child's school grades

Answer: (B)

Sharing identifying information helps authorities locate and protect the child. The best thing to provide is the child’s name and the caregiver’s name (and contact information if available). This lets investigators identify the correct case in records, verify details with the person responsible for the child, and coordinate with protective services, law enforcement, and other agencies to ensure safety. Items like a favorite color or school grades don’t assist in assessing risk or facilitating a protective response. If you have the address and it’s safe to share, it can be useful, but the most essential immediate identifiers are the child’s name and the caregiver’s name.