With the end of the school year and the July-August vacation period about to begin, the Children’s Authority of Trinidad and Tobago is urging parents and guardians to make child safety a top priority.
While this 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. The Authority notes that, as a result of the changes to the routines of children during the vacation period and 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.
For those who would be participating in camp or organised group activities, parents and guardians should enquire from organisers about the arrangements in place to ensure child safety. The Authority advises that teaching children how to protect themselves from abuse is a vital step in ensuring their protection. It is highly recommended that parents and guardians keep an open line of communication, so children feel comfortable in disclosing any incidents that may have occurred.
Mr. Sheldon Cyrus, Director/Chief Executive Officer of the Authority, encourages persons in positions 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”.
He adds that the following should be observed to keep children safe:
• 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.
The Authority encourages parents and guardians to spend time in fun-filled activities with their children during the holidays.
For more tips, visit the Authority’s social media pages (Facebook, Instagram and Twitter). The public is reminded that “child protection is everybody’s business”. To report any incident or suspicion of abuse, contact the Police at 999 or the Authority at 996.