Define neglect as per the Florida DCF guidelines.

Neglect, according to the Florida Department of Children and Families guidelines, is defined primarily as the failure to provide for a child's basic needs, including food and shelter. This definition underscores the essential requirements for a child's survival and well-being. Basic needs are foundational to a child's development and include not only adequate nutrition and housing but also medical care and supervision.

Focusing on other aspects, such as emotional needs, educational expectations, or extracurricular activities, while important for a child's holistic development and quality of life, do not fall under the strict definition of neglect in the context of child welfare laws. Neglect is primarily concerned with fundamental physical and safety needs, which, when unmet, can result in serious harm to a child's health and well-being. Thus, the definition aligns well with the core principles of child protection, emphasizing the importance of ensuring that all children have access to essential resources for healthy growth and development.