Happy Child Month to all our children.
The Child Protection and Family Services Agency (CPFSA) has joined forces with the National Child Month Committee (NCMC) and other partners in celebrating and educating our children under this year’s child month theme --- Unplug Negativity, Connect Positivity…think! You would agree that this theme is quite timely, in light of the current challenges faced with the COVID 19 pandemic. Globally, our children are trying to cope with the new normal of social distancing and connecting with family and friends, digitally. The living spaces of many of our homes have become the new classroom for our children who are now engaged in distance learning and handwashing has become the most important ritual in homes worldwide.
As we embrace these life changes, it is important that our children are informed, whilst they use technology to continue their education and socialize. The CPFSA recognizes the need to empower our children to make wise decisions and to understand when their rights are being abused. We must remember that the digital space is a playground for many predators that can be found on almost every corner – from street corners in their neighbourhoods, to popular Internet chat rooms.
Importantly, child abuse has been found to increase during periods like these and as such we urge parents to be vigilant in their care-giving and supervision through the crisis period. 1. Keep weapons, medication, tools and harmful substances out of their reach. 2. Monitor their internet activity; children are to be assisted with posting mindfully and responsibly. 3. If you have to attend work, ensure that your child/dren are in the care of a trusted adult and set ground rules for the caregiver. 4. Check in as often as possible and reinforce with your child that you are okay. 5. Be in tune with updates about the virus and use the time to explain to your child how the new measures will impact him or her. 6. If you have a child who has a special need, pay attention to their attitude-they may get fussy, a change in appetite and other triggers. 7. Since our children are now using new media channels for classes, encourage them and help to create a structure.
For this child month let us together use this opportunity to reconnect with our children, physically; unplugging from the digital space and participating in other forms of engagements such as reading and playing old time games.
Whilst we do this, let us ensure that we are educating them about child abuse and how to report it. If you know or suspect a child is being abused you can help by calling 888-PROTECT (776 8328), whatsapp/text 876- 878-2882 or email report@childprotection.gov.jm.
We must reiterate that there is no excuse to not reporting child abuse, COVID 19 is on the forefront of everyone’s minds but we must always remember that the rights of every Jamaican child must b be upheld and if not upheld there are sanctions stipulated in the child care and protection act (CCPA), 2004.
We invite our community, learning institutions, NGOS, Public and other sectors to join in celebrating our children; putting the children’s agenda at the forefront of your social commitments. The work to build a better world for our children continues.
On behalf of the CPFSA management and staff, we commend the National Child Month Committee for their continued commitment to this very symbolic period for our country; a time where as a Nation we stop to ensure that every Jamaican child feels extra special.
Our children are the future of our country and it is our duty to ensure that their emotional, physical, social, spiritual and civic needs are met. This can only be achieved if as caregivers we play our part in the lives of even one child.
Child protection is everyone’s business; the future of our children depends on me and you. Let us stand up for the rights and protection of all children.
God bless our children and families.