The global pandemic we are facing is impacting the daily lives of all of us, especially children. Some schools are still closed and the recommendation to stay home means that most of the children's world is now around their families. For many, that means to share spaces with the individuals that often abuse them or are seeking an opportunity to do so (which creates a lot of anticipated stress).
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Here we share some protective steps and online training, recommended by Darkness to Light, that you can take to keep your child as safe as possible:
- "Protecting Children During a Crisis: We need to be prepared to continue protecting kids to the best of our ability under any circumstances. The Protecting Children During a Crisis online training is designed to help you navigate through the unusual circumstances you might face during times of crisis. It will help you consider your current strategies, help you identify the new situation, and help you change your strategy. You can access it online at no cost by registering here.
- Talk to your kids: A quick lesson in proper handwashing can turn into a chat about body safety, or any topic that contributes to meaningful discussion together. These conversations help build a sense of trust, safety, and reliance in children. For more information or strategies for talking with kids, you can access our 30-minute “Talking with Children” online training at no charge by registering here and using code Talk2020.
- Talk to organizations that take care of your children: Discuss safety procedures with any organizations that are still operating children’s programs. Asking about COVID-19 safety procedures can be a great segue into discussing sexual abuse protection policies. You may want to review our “Step Up and Speak Out: Parent’s Guide to Selecting Youth Serving Organizations” One Sheet, which is available as a free download."
Now, how can we get the kids to work from home?
Experts say that it’s very important to follow a daily routine, children need structure. You can start by designating a place in your home for learning, it could be the kitchen table, but have there enough pencils, crayons, books or anything the kids will need so they don’t have to stand up every 3 minutes to get something. Also, make them put their clothes on, pajamas make them feel they can go and watch TV any time. Build a schedule and plan it together as a family, include study time, house chores, fun activities and some exercise. |
Useful resources:
- Positive Parenting Program: https://www.triplep-parenting.ca/can-en/about-triple-p/positive-parenting-program/
- Resources to handle Covid with children: https://www.ibcr.org/en/news/covid-19-resources-to-best-handle-the-situation-with-children/
- Positive Parenting Program: https://www.triplep-parenting.ca/can-en/about-triple-p/positive-parenting-program/
- Resources to handle Covid with children: https://www.ibcr.org/en/news/covid-19-resources-to-best-handle-the-situation-with-children/