Child neglect is the failure of a parent or other person with responsibility for the child to provide the food, clothing, shelter, medical care, education, and supervision necessary for the child's health, safety, and well-being. Placing the child in physically or emotionally harmful situations is also child neglect. Courts take child neglect seriously, and a parent or other person with custody of the child who is guilty of child neglect may lose custody of the child, and may face criminal charges.

In Kansas, child neglect is addressed under the Kansas Code for Care of Children and other relevant statutes, which define neglect as the failure of a parent or guardian to provide necessary care, food, shelter, medical attention, educational opportunities, or other care necessary for a child's well-being. This includes leaving a child in a situation where they may be physically or emotionally harmed. The Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF) is typically involved in cases of suspected child neglect. Courts in Kansas take allegations of neglect seriously and can impose a range of consequences. These may include the loss of custody or parental rights, and in severe cases, criminal charges against the responsible party. The severity of the neglect, the harm to the child, and the circumstances surrounding the neglect are all factors that influence the legal outcomes. It is important for anyone facing allegations of child neglect to consult with an attorney to understand their rights and responsibilities under Kansas law.