Pupils get special school holidays this month – here’s how to keep them safe

The department of basic education (DBE) has declared the period from 29-30 April 2025 and 2 May as special school holidays. This means pupils get an extra week of break.

The special school holidays are Tuesday, 29 April, Wednesday, 30 April and Friday, 2 May.

Freedom Day falls on a Sunday, but will be observed on Monday, 28 April. Workers will celebrate their day on Thursday, 1 May.

While this may be a time of celebration for school-going children, parents may have to make special arrangements to keep their kids safe while they go to work.

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“There are also opportunities for adolescents to start exploring their independence and freedom. All children can be vulnerable sometimes and as a parent, it is only natural to worry about their safety,” said the DBE.

Internet dangers

Unfortunately, the dangers are not only outdoors. In the digital era children can use their devices to interact with strangers on social media platforms.

“The internet is a great space and resource for children and teenagers, giving them access to a wealth of information and interaction owing to a vast array of platforms, including social media, email and text messaging,” the department said.

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“Unfortunately, with this vast access lies the safety risk of meeting with online predators. Online predators are adults who often, in a sexually motivated way, approach children and teenagers online to exploit their innocence and inexperience.”

This exposes children to the risks of trafficking and child sexual exploitation.

The department has shared some tips to help parents protect their children during school hildays.

A few tips to keep them safe during school holidays

• Tell your child to avoid talking to people they don’t know when you’re not around.
• Make sure your child understands that they should always tell you if a stranger has approached them and never keep secrets.
• If your child must use a lift, tell them only to use lifts with friends and not to feel worried about getting out if they are uncomfortable.
• If your child gets lost, they should ask for help from a police officer, another grown-up with children or someone working at a nearby shop.
• Have your children learn their address and telephone number by heart.
• Try to keep your children in your sight or another adult who you trust;
• When visiting places, always arrange a meeting point for you and your child in case you get lost.
• Make sure you all travel together, or have seats close together on a bus or taxi.
• Always accompany your child to public toilets.
• Stick to busy, well-lit roads and avoid shortcuts through alleyways;
• If your child thinks someone is following them, they should cross the road or go to a place with lots of people around, like a bus stop or shop.
• Encourage your child to speak up if they are being bullied or feel they might be in danger.

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