Protect our children

THE EDITOR, Madam:

I write this open letter to all persons who have children in their care to offer some useful tips on safeguarding their precious ones. The pandemic has impacted the mental health of many persons negatively, and children and the elderly who depend on caregivers can end up being the casualties of a pandemic/post-pandemic mental health crisis, if not treated as a high priority issue. We have already witnessed the loss of children to parents who apparently forgot them in their vehicles, and children being injured as a result of inadequate supervision. The mental health implications are obvious as parents exercise their roles as primary caregivers. The pandemic has contributed to some parents being fearful of returning children to school and daycare, while at the same time trying to participate in employment and navigating a devastating pandemic. I offer a few tips as a parent of two young children, who remind me every day of my duty to be mindful, and from professional experiences as a child protection specialist.

CHILDREN’S MENTAL HEALTH

1. Be mindful of sensitive conversations, and ensure that children are not within earshot. Shield them from unnecessary news of violence and suffering; and where this is unavoidable, explain to them in ways to reduce their anxieties and fears. Communicate messages of hope, faith and resilience. Sharing fears, anxieties and stress concerning the pandemic and safety issues at home with children, should be in ways which will allow them to understand and participate in the safety of the space they occupy.

CHILDREN’S PHYSICAL SAFETY

View your home at the eye level of your child and determine where the risks are for them. Get on your knees and enter their world.

2. Soften the sharp corners of tables with corner protectors to avoid head and eye injuries.

3. Install child-safety barriers where children may fall from high places or staircases, and limit access to the kitchen.

4. Always monitor a child who is at the creeping stage and the only agenda is to explore his/her world by pulling on objects, tasting and climbing.

5. Keep buttons batteries, and other small shiny objects out of the reach and sight of children, who may be tempted to chew on them.

6. Keep cleaning agents labelled and locked away from children. Hand sanitizers, vinegar and other clear chemicals should always be kept away from children.

7. Store shavers and medicines away after use.

8. Keep toilet doors locked from young children, who may be tempted to play in the vicinity of a bowl or outdoor toilet.

When you are overwhelmed by all of the above and have the need to sleep, avoid doing so while the children are awake. The television is no replacement for parenting.

Let us work together to save the lives of our children through mindful parenting.

DR KHADIJAH WILLIAMS

INDEPENDENT CONSULTANT/EDUCATOR