Britney Spears is being investigated for possible child abuse, it has been reported.
The 'Toxic' singer's parenting skills have come into question following her recent erratic behaviour. Social workers at the Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services will be making enquiries into Britney's suitability to care for sons Sean Preston and Jayden James.
The child abuse allegations were reportedly raised during an unscheduled court hearing yesterday (27.08.07). Although Britney - who is currently fighting ex-husband Kevin Federline for sole custody of Sean, 23 months, and Jayden, 11 months - was not at the hearing, her lawyer Dennis Wasser reportedly attended along with Kevin's lawyer Mark Kaplan.
Britney's behaviour in front of her children has been criticised in recent weeks with sources claiming the boys are not living in a healthy and stable environment.
One said: "She drinks in front of the kids. At first, the drinks would help her loosen up and not be so angry. But she'd inevitably drink too much and be out of it, at which point the nannies would take care of the kids."
The troubled star was also accused of trying to whiten Sean Preston's teeth. A source claimed: "Britney doesn't even know how to brush Sean's teeth, and they look awful. She tried to whiten them using Crest Whitestrips, but he kept crying. Finally she threw the strips away, telling Sean, 'Fine, you'll just have ugly teeth then!'"
Former workers also alleged Britney "smoked like a chimney" around the boys and even asked Sean to fetch her cigarettes for her. Kevin - who has two other children from a previous relationship - filed for primary custody of the boys after claiming Britney wasn't suitable to be the sole carer. | 
