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Last Updated: Feb 6, 2017 - 2:32:04 PM |
Racquel Piper will be offering weekly articles this month which has been designated Child Abuse Prevention Month
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Nassau, Bahamas - April is the month of Child Abuse Prevention, and the need for preventative measures as it relates to child abuse are critical as we see an increase in cases of child maltreatment. An assumed correlation to this increase is that of the deterioration in family structure, to include, single mother and fatherless homes. Therefore, it is time to “lean in” as a community, look closer, and do our part in keeping all children safe.
As we recognize the month of April as Child Abuse Prevention month, I would like to encourage parents and caregivers alike to take the time and get informed about ways to protect your child(ren) from sexual abuse. Here are some preventative tips for parents on how they can protect their child from sexual predators:
• Parents, never assume a predator is a stranger. A predator does not have to be a stranger, he or she can be a parent, step-parent, sibling, uncle, aunt, neighbor, teacher, pastor, doctor, and grandparent, in other words, it can be anyone.
• Parents, build a rapport with your child, so that if someone attempts to or had sexually assaulted your child, he or she will feel comfortable to tell you what had happened. And never make your child feel as though it is his or her fault.
• Parents always know your child whereabouts and who is around your child; and in an effort to eliminate potential child abuse, monitor one on one child and adult interactions in closed places.
• Parents, always talk to your child about touches that are not good such as touches on their private parts, areas that are covered with their underwear.
• Parents explain to your toddlers what their “private” body parts are.
• Parents, reinforce to your child that it is ok to say NO! to someone, such as an adult, to include a family member or another child that asks him or her to touch their private part, or to give them a kiss, and encourage your child to tell an adult he or she feels comfortable with if this happens.
• Parents, teach your children their body parts proper names; doing this ensures that they will be equip to adequately describe, and report if ever abused, where someone has touched, him or her.
For more information on Child Abuse Prevention trainings “Darkness to Light”, and or consulting, please send an e-mail to Racquel Piper at: Deveaux@islandconsult.net or call “The Centre for Renewing Relationships at 242-356-7983.
The cover of a coloring book that will be out in September 2013.
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