The Children’s Authority is reminding parents that even though the July/August vacation is a time for leisure, fun and exploration, there is a need for all adults to remain watchful, and safeguard all children from abuse, maltreatment and physical harm.
• Teach children about consent, which includes:
No one has a right to touch their body
Ok and Not Ok touches
It’s okay to say “no” to unwanted hugs, kisses, or other affection, even from family
members
• Know who is supervising your child when he/she is spending time away from home.
Ask about sleeping arrangements
Ask who frequents the household
Ask about firearms and other weapons
Ask about safety plans
• Monitor your child’s friendships, especially with adults who repeatedly attempt to
spend time alone with your child, away from others.
• Be aware of your child’s online activity. Be alert to changes in behaviour, as sudden
changes in a child’s behaviour or emotional state, may indicate a problem.
• Utilise non-physical forms of discipline to reduce incidents of physical abuse.
• Keep a watchful eye on children at the beach, river and pool, and secure open
containers of water at home.
• Ensure that potential hazards at home are well-stored and kept out of the reach of
children.
• Teach children about road safety.
• Remind children of emergency contact numbers and what should be done in case of
an emergency.
“A lack of adequate supervision and caregiver awareness, children are more vulnerable to accidents, harm and abuse. Therefore, parents and guardians are encouraged to make suitable arrangements for the care of children during their vacation, ” the Authority said
Mr. Sheldon Cyrus, Director/Chief Executive Officer of the Authority, encourages persons ipositions of trust, to report all instances of abuse and maltreatment towards children. Mr. Cyrus says, “we all have a role in safeguarding our nation’s children, as child abuse is not just a family issue but a societal problem that requires our collective response”.
