Kenya National Association of Private Colleges Chairperson Offers Tips for Protecting Children During the Holiday Season
As femicide and child abuse cases continue to rise in Kenya, Dr. Ekrah Ndungu, Chairperson of the Kenya National Association of Private Colleges, has shared essential safety tips for parents and caregivers to help protect children during the upcoming holiday season. With school breaks and the festive season fast approaching, Dr. Ndungu emphasized the heightened risks children face during this time and stressed the importance of vigilance.
“The holiday season can be hectic—kids are out of school, you’re busy with holiday shopping, and there may be family gatherings or travel plans,” Dr. Ndungu said. “However, this increased activity also presents more opportunities for abuse, and it is crucial to prioritize the safety of our children.”
**Setting Boundaries and Empowering Children**
Dr. Ndungu urged parents and caregivers to have open conversations with their children about personal boundaries and the importance of saying “no” when they feel uncomfortable. With more family members and friends potentially visiting, Dr. Ndungu warned that inappropriate behavior can sometimes go unnoticed, especially when it involves trusted individuals.
She emphasized, “Boundaries and respect are key in empowering children to say ‘no’ to unwanted touches, pictures, or advances, whether from adults or other children. If your child says ‘no’ or ‘stop,’ their decision must be respected.”
**Recognizing the Signs of Abuse**
Dr. Ndungu also highlighted the critical role parents, guardians, and other caregivers play in recognizing signs of abuse. According to her, the majority of abuse cases occur within familiar circles, with 90% of children being abused by someone they know, and 70% abused by a family member.
“Sometimes, we dismiss concerning behavior because the adult involved is a family member or a trusted friend. Unfortunately, many cases of abuse are perpetrated by individuals the family knows well,” Dr. Ndungu explained. “If you suspect something is not right, don’t hesitate to ask questions or follow up with your child. It’s okay to stop by unannounced when your child is with others, and always check in with them after any visit.”
**The Dangers of Digital Spaces**
With children spending more time online during the holiday break, Dr. Ndungu also cautioned parents about the dangers that lurk in the digital world. She advised caregivers to talk to their children about the risks of sharing personal information online and the importance of privacy settings on social media platforms.
“Teach your children to avoid posting sensitive information such as their location, school, or other identifiable details,” Dr. Ndungu said. “An unintended audience may view these posts, and predators could use this information to locate your child.”
In addition to protecting their personal information, Dr. Ndungu encouraged parents to foster good digital citizenship in their children. She emphasized teaching children about responsible online behavior, respecting others, and establishing a positive digital footprint.
“It’s vital to have ongoing conversations with your children about the dangers of the online world. Empower them to report any uncomfortable interactions or if someone they do not know tries to make contact,” she said.
**Prioritizing Safety Over Convenience**
As the holiday season brings increased activity, Dr. Ndungu urged parents to make their children’s safety a priority. She reminded caregivers that their vigilance and involvement are critical to ensuring that children have a safe and enjoyable break.
“The holiday season is a time for joy, but it’s also a time to be especially mindful of the risks our children face. By setting boundaries, being alert to signs of abuse, and protecting our children online, we can help ensure that they stay safe,” she concluded.
Parents, guardians, and caregivers are encouraged to stay proactive, communicate openly with their children, and create an environment where children feel comfortable reporting any concerns they may have.
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