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 Ohio, child neglect is addressed under the state's child welfare and protection laws. Ohio Revised Code Section 2151.03 defines a neglected child as one who is abandoned by their parents, guardians, or custodians, or who lacks adequate parental care because of the faults or habits of the parent, guardian, or custodian. The law also considers a child neglected if they are without proper care or support due to the actions or inactions of the parent, guardian, or custodian. Child neglect includes the failure to provide necessary food, clothing, shelter, medical care, or education as required by law, and it may also encompass placing the child in situations that endanger their well-being. When neglect is suspected, it can be reported to county children services agencies, which will investigate the allegations. If neglect is substantiated, the responsible party may face a range of consequences, including the loss of custody and potential criminal charges. Ohio courts prioritize the health and safety of the child, and in cases of neglect, they may intervene to ensure the child's needs are met, which can include placing the child in a safer environment.