Children must be taught to protect themselves- Kidz Clinic
With respect to the recently released statistics on the incidence and prevalence of child abuse in the country, Kidz Clinic Boksburg has taken it upon itself to teach children to protect themselves from abuse.
The organisation stated that there is a need to teach children how to protect themselves, to be aware of dangers and how to avoid becoming a victim.
Kidz Clinic social worker Zandile Vilakazi said it is vital that parents and the community as a whole take child protection issues seriously, by teaching children about safety.
According to Vilakazi, children of all ages, male and female, from all cultures and socio-economic groups are victims of abuse, and that such brutality highlights the need for them to be empowered against abuse, including domestic violence.
“Children are our nation’s precious resource and, therefore, it is our responsibility as parents, social workers, teachers, as well as the community at large, to protect them,” he said.
“The best way to protect children is to empower them with the necessary skills and information, as well as tips on how to protect themselves.
“According to a Statistics South Africa 2014 survey, children remain victims of child abuse throughout the year, however, the recent research studies reveal that child abuse statistical ratio increases by 30 per cent during school holidays (especially winter holidays), compared to any other part of the year.”
Children are, therefore, strongly advised to use the following tips and to incorporate them into their daily living, especially during school holidays:
* Know your name, address and home telephone contacts, as well as your parents’ names. Also know police contact numbers.
Always inform your parents or an adult person before going anywhere.
*Make sure your phone is charged and have a bit of airtime when leaving the house, so you are able to inform your family in the event of encountering problems.
* Keep away from unsafe places such as empty buildings, dark streets, overgrown fields and bushy places.
* Always come home before sunset. If you are delayed contact your family and inform them of your whereabouts.
* Always take a friend with you when going to places or when you are playing outside.
*Keep the door locked when you are alone, even during the day, and never open the door for strangers.
* Never tell callers that your parents are not home. Instead say: “The parent is busy and cannot answer the call”, and offer to take the message.
* Never ever give personal information such as your address on social networks like Facebook and Whatsapp.
* Learn to say “No!” Cry, scream and run if someone tries to touch or treat you in a way that makes you feel scared, uncomfortable or confused.
* Always report it if someone is doing or has done something to you that made you feel uncomfortable. -@FanieFLK
