The Children’s Authority of T&T has commended Minister of Labour and Small
Enterprise Development Jenifer Baptiste-Primus for guidelines which would allow parents to care for their children
while schools are closed.
The authority, in a statement, said it is aware that the protection of children is paramount to parents and guardians
at this time and recommends the following:
• Leave children in the care of trusted and responsible adults.
• Older children should not be given the responsibility of supervising younger ones.
• Believe children when they express a concern about someone.
• Teach children what are appropriate and inappropriate touches and that they should never keep inappropriate touching a secret.
• Educate children about online safety.
• Monitor your child’s online activity by using parental control Apps.
• Be aware of physical and non-physical signs of abuse in your children (e.g. marks or redness on body; discharges when bathing or changing young children; pain or discomfort in any body part, especially genitals; fear or avoidance of a certain adult or place; inappropriate sexual behaviour).
• Parents and guardians are reminded to be vigilant; to not let their guard down; and to trust their instincts.
With respect to COVID-19, children should be taught and encouraged to wash and sanitise
their hands regularly. Parents and guardians are urged to advise children that they are not on
vacation and need to avoid crowded areas.
The authority is aware that the usual caregivers whom parents rely on when school is closed, may be those who are elderly or at greater risk of experiencing severe illness, due to COVID- 19.
Therefore, alternative care options should be sought for children displaying flu-like symptoms, as they should not be exposed to older or at-risk persons.
The national community is reminded that “Child Protection Is Everybody’s Business” and it is our responsibility to safeguard our children. Incidents of child abuse should be reported to the Authority’s Hotline at 996 or to the Police at 999.
