The paper defines the concept of child neglect, from the context of theory and positive law, and gives an overview of the types and manifestations of this phenomenon. The paper also analyzes the characteristics of perpetrators and victims of neglect (characteristics of children exposed to neglect, their parents and family environment), with an overview of trends in child neglect in the Republic of Croatia, Europe and the world. It provides insight into the needs of children, with an analysis of parenting styles, with a special focus on the neglecting parenting style. The paper also emphasizes the importance of understanding Bronfenbrenner's theory and the context of risk and protective factors. It raises awareness of the consequences of neglect that occur in children, and at the level of the wider society. Trends in child neglect and abuse during the Covid-19 pandemic are analyzed, with an analysis of the new challenges that families are facing, and highlighting the role of social work in the context of the pandemic. Attention is drawn to the work of child protection services, especially the Centers for Social Welfare, in cases of neglect of children within the family. Emphasis is placed on the prevention of neglect, with a presentation of established strategies and preventive approaches. An overview of effective interventions, ie approaches and areas of action, is offered.