THE Department of Social Development (DSD) in KwaZulu-Natal has urged parents to be on high alert for child protection as the festive activities are on a roll.
Alerting parents, DSD social worker Buyisiwe Sophazi says during the holiday season, children are not at school and parents are busy preparing for the holidays and family gatherings, such as weddings, religious services and family get-togethers.
Also read: Creating memorable holidays for children with special needs
“All places are congested, and this may put children at risk, and the crime rate, including trafficking of children, is normally high during the festive season,” she said
The department is therefore urging parents and caregivers to take extra precautions regarding the care and protection of children during the festive season by doing the following:
Always know the whereabouts of your child
Be aware of your child’s location and ensure they are only left with responsible and trusted adults. Confirm and verify who your children are always spending time with. Never allow your child to go on unsupervised outings.
Never leave your children unsupervised
Children must not be left unattended at home, swimming pools or beaches. Don’t allow your child to go out at night without your supervision. Hold your child’s hand in public and always accompany them to the bathroom.
Also read: Keeping children mentally stimulated during holidays
Child abuse and exploitation is on the rise
Don’t allow your children to go with persons who promise them a brighter future; child trafficking, child sexual exploitation and being used to commit crimes are real.
Children must be aware of strangers
Teach your children not to accept gifts and rewards from strangers.
Visitation of family members
Parents must know the background and family circumstances of the people the child is visiting. Never allow your child to visit or to be visited by children/adults whose background information is unknown. Always ensure that contact is made with the child directly, and check how he/she is feeling.
Emergency contact details
Make sure that your child knows your contact details or that of a family member should anything happen.
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