ONE of the first introductions to body parts for babies is usually when parents teach them the parts of their face. They point to the nose and say ‘nose’, and the eyes, and so on.
Usually, around six months when baby’s limbs are more mobile, they tend to do their own exploration, and it is not unusual for a baby to grab their feet, ears or genitals. For baby boys especially, the penis is an easy-to-reach interesting feature.
Around 12-18 months, toddlers develop some control over their bladder and bowel functions, which is when potty training is introduced. Children are initially fascinated by whatever they manage to put in the potty, and slowly they gain independence. They learn to clean themselves; to wash their hands, and, in time, they graduate to using the adult toilet.
During this transition period, it is useful to teach children subtle messages about the appropriate and inappropriate touching of their private parts. From birth to toddler stage and sometimes beyond, children may be cared for by a range of different people who are responsible for taking care of their personal hygiene, but once they have reached a stage of independence, it is definitely time to brief them.
Children expose their private parts quite innocently when they are young, so they need delicate guidelines. Nothing too harsh or disturbing; but just enough age- appropriate information for them to be discreet and have enough awareness to question anything they deem inappropriate, or to report any behaviour that may have made them feel uncomfortable.
When parents interact with their children (passing on relevant information) while they are young, it then becomes easier to guide them as they grow. Children need guidance in every aspect of their lives; even their sexuality and whatever additional information parents may require can now be sourced through the Internet. Childcare Protection Officers (CPA) are also on hand to give advice and guidance.
If children are not given general information by adults pertaining to their conduct, sexual or otherwise, they will not possess the ability to discern unacceptable behaviour. Therefore, sexual regulations should be taught in the home. Here are some simple information that parents can share with their children.
1) These are your private parts; they are called ‘private’ because they should be kept private: They belong to you.
2) You alone should wash them and keep them clean.
3) No one else is allowed to touch them; not daddy, mummy, uncle, sister. Not even your best friend. Here, parents may need to define ‘touch’ as in fondle, stroke or deliberate contact.
4) If anyone (adult or child) asks to see your private parts, tell them ‘No!’ loudly and firmly, and always report the incident to your teacher and your parents.
5) If someone wants to show you their private parts, or asks you to touch their private parts, say ‘No!’ And always run away and tell.
This type of information can be disseminated to children in a variety of ways, e.g., using words they are familiar with, or by making up a story about a child who behaves in the correct manner when found in a similar predicament. Parents should also ask their children questions to ensure that they have an understanding of what they have learnt. Parents can introduce this aspect of child protection in a natural way; it is the first step in empowering their child against sexual abuse.
Child sexual abuse can occur among family members; the perpetrator is not always a stranger. Older brothers, sisters, uncles, step-fathers, fathers and trusted family- friends can certainly make the list of potential offenders. Incest is also a form of child sexual abuse. Siblings fondling each other and indulging in sexual foreplay or intercourse can take place when children have not been given the necessary and correct guidelines about inappropriate touching and/or when to report it to an adult should it occur.
As you read these words, there is, without a doubt, several unknown sex offenders lurking about who are cleverly disguised. We may not know who they are, or when they might strike; and it is for that reason that we must do everything within our means to protect our children.
If you are concerned about the welfare of a child, call the Childcare and Protection Hotline on 227 0979 , or write to us at childcaregy@gmail.com
A MESSAGE FROM THE CHILDCARE AND PROTECTION AGENCY,
MINISTRY OF SOCIAL PROTECTION
