Sophiatown police host anti-bullying talks at schools for Child Protection Week
SOPHIATOWN – Sophiatown Police Station celebrates Child Protection Week with anti-bullying talks.
In light of Child Protection Week, celebrated between 28 May and 4 June, Sophiatown Police Station provided tips on how to best keep your child safe from bullying.
The station’s Warrant Officer TJ de Bruyn said the officers would conduct talks at various schools within the area to address children’s rights and bullying.
“Bullying is a huge concern as it has effects on all involved and needs to be prevented. So, because of this, the station has given parents tips on how to address the matter,” De Bruyn said.
Sophiatown Police Station provided the following tips:
- Parents must model a compassionate, respectful relationship for their children.
- Be your child’s ‘go to’ person. They should feel safe and free to tell you anything.
- Stay connected to your child through thick and thin.
- Supervise electronic communication such as the internet, social network and text messages.
- Help your child think of positive ways to react to possible bullying incidents.
- Coach your child to handle teasing.
- Teach your child to be respectful and to build inner confidence. Teach them how to stand up for themselves.
- Teach your child basic social skills. Bullies prey on children who they perceive to be vulnerable.
- Advise your child not to respond to possible bullying by fighting or bullying back.
“It is important that if your child has already been exposed to bullying to not hesitate to intervene and speak up for your child.”
Details: If parents suspect their children might be bullied or abused, they can contact ChildLine toll free on 080 005 5555.
