The Children’s Authority of Trinidad and Tobago is urging parents and guardians to maintain the safety practices that protected children during the school term as the Christmas and New Year holidays approach.
Mr. Sheldon Cyrus, Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Authority, reminded parents to “keep children a priority, despite the lengthy to-do lists and all the associated activities of the festive season.” He said neglect remains the most reported form of abuse, with parental inattention leaving children vulnerable.
“It is easy for parents to get caught up in the preparations for Christmas but they must not be distracted from their primary duty as caregivers,” Mr. Cyrus added. He also warned that children should never be given alcohol, which can impair judgement and make them easier targets for abuse.
The Authority is advising parents to ensure children have adequate time to rest and play, even if they are involved in holiday cleaning. It also recommends discussing appropriate behaviour for both children and adults before outings or family gatherings. Children should be taught about consent and assured that it is acceptable to say “no” to unwanted hugs, kisses, or other forms of affection, even from family members.
Additional guidance from the Authority includes:
* Teach children “Ok” and “Not Ok” touches and that their body belongs to them.
* Monitor children’s online activity.
* Teach road safety.
* Advise children not to accept gifts, food, or snacks from strangers.
* Remind children of emergency contact numbers and steps to take in an emergency.
* Ensure children know their name, age, parent’s name and address, and whom to approach if lost.
The Authority stressed that “child protection is everybody’s business” and urged the public to report any incident or suspicion of abuse to the Police at 999 or the Children’s Authority at 996.
