CHILDREN’S AUTHORITY SAYS FAMILIES KEY TO CREATING SAFER COMMUNITIES FOR CHILDREN

The Children’s Authority of Trinidad and Tobago calls on the national community to join in the fight against child abuse and maltreatment. Mr. Sheldon Cyrus, Director/Chief Executive Officer of the Authority says, “April is Child Abuse Awareness and Prevention Month and the Authority encourages families to use this opportunity to create safer communities for our nation’s children”.

Mr. Cyrus highlights the concerning trend of child neglect, which continues to dominate reports received by the Authority. He adds that “the neglect of children by those responsible for their care and protection, often leads to other types of abuses being perpetrated”. He notes that “tackling child abuse requires a national response and commitment to building a culture where children feel safe”.

The Director/CEO urges parents experiencing parenting challenges to seek help. He indicates that support is available from agencies like the National Family Services Division of the Ministry of Social Development and Family Services, which has expanded its Community-Based Parenting Workshops. Some parents, he notes, have been using social media to name and shame their children as a means of discipline. Mr. Cyrus discourages this behaviour, which may not yield the change that is desired or anticipated.

Parents and guardians should consider the following positive approaches to discipline:

  • Reward good behaviour
  • Reinforce clear boundaries and expectations
  • Discuss inappropriate behaviour you want to see changed
  • Administer consequences for undesirable actions immediately and ensure they are age and developmentally appropriate and proportionate
  • Use time-out or temporarily remove privileges such as games, devices, outdoor events or social activities
  • Avoid disciplining children when angry – take time to calm down before dealing with the situation
  • Seek professional help, especially when dealing with children who may be displaying challenging behaviours

The Authority reminds the public that reports of abuse can be made to the Hotline at 996 or the Police at 999.

SAY NO TO CHILD NEGLECT AND ABUSE THIS CARNIVAL

The Children’s Authority of Trinidad and Tobago urges the national community to prioritise child safety this Carnival.

The Authority recognises the cultural significance of this season for both adults and children. It remains a great avenue for cultural expression and the passing on of traditions, which hold historical significance. However, reports to the Authority indicate the need for greater supervision of children, whether they are participating in Carnival-related activities or not.

Child neglect continues to rank as the number one type of abuse reported to the Authority, causing significant concern, as children also are exposed to physical, emotional and sexual abuse.

Mr. Sheldon Cyrus, Director/Chief Executive Officer of the Authority says, “parents should ensure their children are properly supervised before they go out to party”. He adds that “leaving older children to supervise their younger siblings is not a suitable option. Instead, children should be left in the care of a trusted adult”.

The Authority is again appealing to parents and guardians to verify the safety and trustworthiness of groups and volunteers facilitating non-Carnival activities like camping and club retreats, before allowing children to participate.

The following are a few safety tips to protect children:

  • Closely monitor children at the beach, river or near any body of water. Do not allow children to enter the water alone.
  • Teach children OK and Not OK touches and that it’s okay to say “no” to unwanted hugs, kisses or other affection, even from family members.
  • Teach and remind children about recognising abuse and how to protect themselves.
  • Create and maintain free-flowing communication with children so they can tell you about any challenges they may face.
  • Set boundaries about places children may go and enforce them.
  • Encourage older children to check-in with you frequently when they are not at home.
  • Ensure that potential hazards or poisonous substances at home are well-stored and kept out of reach.
  • Be aware of your child’s online activity.

Mr. Cyrus encourages the national community, “if you are aware of incidents of child abuse, maltreatment or neglect, to call the Authority’s Hotline at 996 or the Police at 999 to make a report and do your part to keep our nation’s children safe”.

Child Protection is Everybody’s Business!