Child protection programme a big hit at kids reading fest
sharjah — An electronic programme aimed at educating parents to teach children to reject terrorism approaches or any kinds of sexual and physical exploitation has been launched by the Sharjah Social Service Department.
Named ‘How to say No to terrorism and exploitation,’ the initiative was launched as part of its participation at the Sharjah Children’s Reading Festival 2017 (SCRF 2017).
Speaking to Khaleej Times, Ahmed Ibrahim Al Mell, director of the government communications department at the Department of Social Services (DSS), said that the programme is a step-by-step guide, which parents can use to teach their children how to say ‘no,’ when they find themselves in a manipulative social situation.
He revealed that the programme will enhance the protection of children from any aggression, violence or any kind of exploitation that they may be subjected to in their daily lives in schools, streets or elsewhere. It will also protect them from the risks on Internet, social media or games through which terrorist organsiations attract children and teenagers. The programme also teaches parents to avoid child negligence and ensure their safety and security.
He explained that the programme takes only one hour for parents to learn about child protection. Parents can participate in the programme directly through their smart devices and finish their training to get an electronic certificate. He urged all parents to log on to the DSS website, to participate in the programme to enhance their skills to secure their children and teach them how to deal with hard situations.
During the two days of the SCRF,
it is a step-by-step guide, which parents can use to teach their children how to say ‘no,’ when they find themselves in a manipulative social situation.” Ahmed Ibrahim Al Mell, director, govt communications dept, DSS
the DSS stall has attracted over 380 families including children, who learnt about the protection programme.
Al Mell added that the DSS pavilion contains four sections — the educational theatre section, the free studio, grandparents’ corner, the heritage stories and the ‘Bikati rights’ initiative.
The awareness department offers a series of entertaining and educational programmes aimed at raising awareness among children about their rights as an independent individual living in a family and society. Several workshops were organised to focus on how to educate children and protect them from any aggression they may face. The free studio workshop leaves room for children to participate in presenting their artistic awareness in a creative way, in order to develop their abilities and creative talents. The Grandparents’ Corner `to children about Emirati stories that depict the lives of grandparents, heritage and social norms in order to make children aware of their heritage, customs and patriotism.
The ‘Bikati rights’ initiative is where the children can read and record voice that can later be collected on a CD. The content of this initiative is centered on ‘my right to live,’ ‘I have the right to have my identity papers,’ ‘My right to learn’ and ‘My health is my right’ in order to promote the concept of raising children’s awareness of any risks they may face, whether inside or outside the family.
A cultural celebration attracting not only children, but extending the joy of learning to parents and adults in a family-friendly atmosphere, the SCRF encourages learning and self-education from a young age, helping raise a generation of leaders, scholars and professionals who will contribute to the development of their society.