The Children’s Authority of Trinidad and Tobago strongly condemns the actions of a man seen physically and verbally abusing a child in a video circulating on social media. Once the video came to the Authority’s attention, the customary procedures were put in place, and the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service was immediately contacted.
In thanking the public for bringing attention to this incident, Sheldon Cyrus, Director/Chief Executive Officer of the Authority advised that the Authority’s Emergency Response Team was activated. “Our team is conducting a full investigation into the incident and the circumstances surrounding it. The investigation includes engaging the family and members of the community, and this is being conducted in conjunction with the Police.”
Mr. Cyrus appeals to parents and caregivers to consider the following as we rethink and reframe our approach to discipline, for the sake of our children:
- Reinforce boundaries and expectations of behaviour
- Reward good behaviours
- Administer consequences for undesirable actions immediately or close in time to the infraction, and in a manner that is age and developmentally appropriate and proportionate to the infraction
- Discuss with your child the inappropriate behaviour you want to see changed
- Use time-out or take away privileges from children: such as games, devices, outdoor events or playing with friends for a short period of time
- Avoid disciplining children when angry as heightened emotions can make matters worse. Instead, walk away, take deep breaths and try talking to your child about the unacceptable behaviour when you have calmed down
- Seek professional help, especially when dealing with children who may be displaying challenging behaviours
The Children’s Authority reminds personsthat they can report abuse to the Hotline at 996 or the Police at 999 and reach out to the following agencies for support:
- The Ministry of Social Development and Family Services: 800-1673
- The National Family Services Division: 623-2608 ext. 6701-6711
- The Student Support Services Division of the Ministry of Education: 724-1010
- Childline: 131
