POSITIVE PARENTING Keeping kids safe
WHETHER a child is out with friends or in the classroom, his or her safety is always a top priority. Here are four steps to help keep your child safe.
Identify signs of abuse
As parents, it is important to identify the early tell-tale signs of abuse:
When a child is hurt physically by another person
When a child is forced to participate in sexual interactions When a child’s basic needs (food, shelter, cleanliness, etc) are not met When a child is bullied, humiliated, intimidated and embarrassed. This includes online abuse.
When a child experiences ongoing maltreatment or neglect. All aspects of abuse affect a child emotionally.
> Physical: > Sexual: > Neglect: > Social: Emotional: Educate child on personal safety
Start a conversation on personal safety and abuse with the child. When he or she is ready, pick a comfortable space and turn it into a topic of casual conversation.
A heart-to-heart talk will break down barriers of fear and embarrassment, and encourage the child to ask questions and share concerns.
> Speak to them about private areas of their body and remind them of personal boundaries.
> Tell them to speak up when anyone makes them uncomfortable.
> Teach them to be polite to adults but not to always say “Yes” if they feel uncomfortable with them.
> Explain that they should not be told to keep secrets from their parents.
Listen to the child
When a child opens up about a possible situation of abuse, stay calm and listen.
First, set the child at ease within a quiet and comfortable space. Then start with open, non-leading questions such as where, when and who.
Avoid asking why it happened as the child is not the cause of abuse. Write down the details on a sheet of paper when listening to the child’s response.
Then, calmly assure the child that he or she made the right move in speaking out about it. It also helps to say that you will do your best to protect and support him or her.
Report to relevant authorities
The next step is to report the abuse to relevant authorities such as Jabatan Kebajikan Masyarakat (JKM) and Childline Malaysia.
JKM Welfare can be reached at 03-8323 2598 (Putrajaya) or 03-2612 4075 / 03-2612 4000 (Kuala Lumpur), with more information at its website (www.jkm.gov.my).
Childline Malaysia is a child-friendly, 24-hour hotline that children can call to report child abuse or domestic violence. The centre can be reached by calling 15999.
Childcare and protection in Nexus
At Nexus International School, child safety is important. Guidelines and response strategies have been established in the event of suspected child abuse.
Nexus learners are taught all aspects of safety, from what to do if they feel uncomfortable to how to keep themselves safe in a car.
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