The crisis facing South African children is staggering. Between July and September 2024, three or more children were murdered every day. An estimated 58% of children aged 5 to 16 have experienced direct sexual victimisation. Multidimensional poverty affects 62% of South African children, rising to 88% in rural areas. Only 20% of children under five receive the minimum acceptable diet, with nearly a third of children suffering from stunting due to chronic malnutrition. These are not just statistics. This is the lived reality of millions of children in our own country! Without collective action from all corners of society, nothing will change.
Although it is at times bemoaned that too much of the burden for children’s social, emotional and academic development is placed on teachers, Jabulani recognises the value of collective action and the important contribution that teachers can make towards improving child safety. As such, over the past five years we have been more intentional about what the Zithulele Montessori Preschool can do as part of this collective. With this in mind, the preschool hosted a vital workshop aimed at enhancing child safety both at home and at school, to mark this year’s National Child Protection Week.
With awareness and education being key to child protection, the school invited a colleague from the Apostolic Faith Mission Welfare team to lead an intervention specifically designed for preschoolers and their parents or caregivers. The sessions offered essential knowledge and practical tools to help create safer environments for our children.
To ensure the message resonated with young minds, the day began with an interactive, age-appropriate session for the children. Through interactive and engaging discussions, our three- to five-year-olds explored what it means to stay safe at home, at school, and in everyday life. They learnt about their own responsibility for safety, including how to recognise dangerous objects such as knives and scissors, and the importance of seeking adult supervision for certain activities. With music and song being such effective learning tools with children, what they learnt was reinforced through lively songs about “stranger danger” and being a “safety superhero.” The session concluded with a fun and affirming pop quiz, where eager hands shot up to share what they had learned.
Following the children’s session, a more in-depth workshop was held for parents and caregivers. The conversation covered a wide range of topics, from simple but crucial safety habits at home and in public spaces, to how to speak with young children about sensitive issues such as body autonomy and the meaning of ‘private parts’. Teacher Lydia also facilitated an insightful session on Children’s Rights, highlighting both the legal and moral responsibilities adults have in protecting and empowering the young. It was heart-warming to see the parents actively engaging, asking thoughtful questions, sharing experiences, and contributing to a supportive atmosphere of shared learning.
By equipping both children and adults with the knowledge and tools to prevent harm and promote safety, we are laying and reinforcing the foundation for safer homes, nurturing schools, and resilient communities. Through continued awareness, collaboration, and proactive efforts, we can work toward a future where every child’s right to safety is protected. We call on everyone, not just parents, caregivers and educators, but all members of society, to remain vigilant, informed, and committed to creating an environment where children are free to grow, to thrive, and to dream. No one can do it alone, but we can all do our bit, and when our children are safe, healthy, and empowered, there is no doubt that we’ll see great things happen.
