Children have the right to feel safe and be cared for.
Nonetheless, children should also follow basic safety rules so they are less vulnerable to dangerous situations.
– Children should always check first with their parents before leaving the house or school.
– Children should be careful before accepting gifts and favours from anyone, especially strangers.
– Children are advised to take a friend with them when going somewhere.
– Children should know their home address, telephone number and their parents’ work telephone numbers.
– Children should be taught to say ‘No!’ to people who make them feel uncomfortable.
– A child should be able to talk to their parents when they feel scared, uncomfortable or confused.
“It is ok to say ‘No’. There will always be someone who can help you if you are in trouble.”
When a child feels like running away from home:
Mrs Arumugam said there was a solution to every problem, no matter how hopeless the situation may look.”So if you are thinking about running away , don’t,” she said.
Running away from home could be a frightening experience for both the child and the parents, as the child might fall victim to the following:
– Alcohol abuse
– Drug abuse
– Crime
– Sexual exploitation, pornography and / or prostitution
– Kidnapping or abduction.
Instead of running away from home, Mrs Arumugam suggested children do the following:
– Keep an open line of communication and trust between you and your parents
– Resolve the problems which may prompt you to run away
– If you really cannot deal with family or personal problems, seek the assistance of a social worker.
“And lastly, remember, You are strong, smart and you have the right to safety.”
