Imperative to keep children safe

THE EDITOR, Madam:

It is important that we make sure our kids have safe places to learn and grow, and I think we really need to step up our efforts to make that happen.

Unfortunately, we know that many kids face various dangers, not only in their homes but also in their communities. Schools should be a haven, but we have to remember that being safe means more than just good grades; it’s about emotional support and physical safety too.

There’s a lot of research out there showing that many students come to school dealing with serious issues like abuse. Teachers and staff need to be trained to recognise the signs of trauma, which can sometimes come out as behavioural problems. While counsellors and deans play a crucial role, it can’t just be on their shoulders. We all need to pitch in to look out for these kids.

It’s frustrating how often people notice troubling situations but choose to look the other way. We can’t afford to ignore what’s happening. Our community must be proactive and take responsibility for the well-being of our children. If we suspect any kind of abuse or crime against kids, we should speak up; every little bit helps.

Groups like the Child Protection and Family Services Agency (CPFSA) and the National Parent Association should consider hosting workshops or seminars to share awareness and resources. Instead of waiting for something bad to happen, let’s be proactive about ensuring our kids are safe.

At the end of the day, we should think of every child as if they were our own. By creating a supportive and watchful environment, we can make our schools places where kids can truly thrive without fear. Let’s work together to strengthen the safety nets for our children and make sure they have the chance to grow up happy and healthy.

RICARDO SMITH

ricardo.professional.edu@

gmail.com