Tips to educate children about sexual violence - Hindustan Times
close_game
close_game

Tips to educate children about sexual violence

ByZarafshan Shiraz, Delhi
Dec 05, 2022 05:08 PM IST

Creating secure environments that support children's growth and development includes having open conversations with them regarding sexual assault. Here's how to educate children about sexual violence

Every kid is entitled to an abusive-free childhood and maintaining children’s safety involves talking to them about sexual abuse. That's because talking offers your child a language to discuss this issue and helps them comprehend what sexual assault is and additionally, candid and open discussions convey to your child that they can talk to you at any time and that you will always listen.

Tips to educate children about sexual violence (Alex Green)
Tips to educate children about sexual violence (Alex Green)

In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Samarthya Bhatnagar, Co-Founder of Bodsphere, suggested, “You can start by bringing up sexual assault in discussions about relationships, respect and personal growth. For instance, you may bring up positive aspects of trusting relationships, such as experiencing love and having fun but you may also add that it's not acceptable when relationships cause people to feel unsafe, unwelcome or bullied. Creating secure environments that support children's growth and development includes having open conversations with them regarding sexual assault.”

Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now.

He added, “This Yogic Principle is something that should be taught to the children. At the same time, following the Yogic Philosophy of Satya or truth is something that the children should be aware of. Speaking the truth without any fear is the right of every child. When anything is wrong or they don't feel comfortable, children's bodies offer them warning signs. A child should be able to recognise the signals in a sexually risky scenario too if he can recognise the signs in any unsafe circumstance. Yoga can also help the children become more aware of their thoughts, emotions, and physical sensations. It provides an opportunity for them to reconnect with their mental and physical experience, and to build confidence in being able to guide their thoughts and actions through intentional movement and focus.”

Prof Usha Patel, Director - Academics at IIAD highlighted how sexual violence is a problem that affects millions of children around the world yet it is something that is often left unspoken. She said, “Empathy lies at the core of all design solutions and by taking this forward we can develop more effective, engaging and informative materials on sexual violence prevention.” She recommended ways in which we can contribute towards spreading awareness:

  • Creating interactive games or simulations that help students understand the dynamics of consent and healthy relationships.
  • Developing videos and educational content that is easily accessible and shareable.
  • Developing infographics and visuals that simplify complex information to spread awareness.
  • Designing educational materials that are culturally relevant and inclusive.
  • Ultimately, we believe that education is key to prevention. By raising awareness about this issue, we can empower people to take action and create a safer world for all children.

Explore the art deco structures of Mumbai through a heritage walk with HT! Participate now.

Catch your daily dose of Fashion, Health, Festivals, Travel, Relationship, Recipe and all the other Latest Lifestyle News on Hindustan Times Website and APPs.
SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Share this article
SHARE
Story Saved
Live Score
OPEN APP
Saved Articles
Following
My Reads
Sign out
New Delhi 0C
Friday, March 29, 2024
Start 14 Days Free Trial Subscribe Now
Follow Us On