HOW TO MANAGE FAMILY PRESENCE IN YOUR HOME DURING THE FESTIVE SEASON

According to the child centre, during the holidays, when visitors abound, schedules get hectic, and parents are often overwhelmed and all types of child abuse tend to increase.

Wlns.com  suggests that Studies show that ‘more than 90 percent of children, who are sexually abused, are by someone the child knows and trusts. This is why experts want parents to take precautions during the holidays.

This is not to say all visitors who might visit you during the festive period are predators and are  out to abuse your children. Nonetheless, it is important for parents not to let their guard down because it is Christmas or place blind trust in others. Nonetheless, It is imperative for parents to take precaution during this period.

Make separate sleeping arrangement for your children and guests. It is advisable not to allow your children to share the same bedroom as your guests. Put all your children in one room close to your bedroom where you can keep an eye on them.

Don’t force your child to spend time with people they are not comfortable with.  It is important for parents to listen to their children when they express discomfort with spending time with family or friends.

Child centre .com also recommends that parents should discuss boundaries with their children. Teach them that their body is theirs  and no one has a right to touch their body or take pictures of them without permission. Let them know it’s okay to say no to unwanted hugs, kisses, or other affection.

Listen to your child when they report that they have been abused. Most predators and child molesters have gotten away with heinous crimes against children because parents didn’t listen to their children when they reported being abused. Pay close attention to your children, don’t overlook any changes or complaints they make about being abused. Don’t sweep abuse under the carpet because the abuser is a friend or family member.