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With rising concerns over child safety amid increasing reports of abuse and femicide in Kenya, Prof. Catherine Gachutha, Director at the Kenya Institute of Business Studies and Chairperson of the Kenya Counseling and Psychological Association (KCPA), has shared essential tips for parents and caregivers. Her guidance aims to help families create a secure environment for children during the busy holiday season.
“The holiday season can be hectic – kids are out of school, you’re busy with holiday shopping, family gatherings, or traveling. But with all that activity comes increased opportunities for children to be exposed to potential harm. During these times, protecting kids must be our priority,” Prof. Gachutha emphasized.
With extra family and friends around, children may encounter situations that compromise their comfort and safety. Prof. Gachutha advises teaching children about boundaries and empowering them to say “no” to unwanted touch, pictures, or interactions, even with trusted adults or other children. “If a child says ‘no’ or ‘stop,’ their decision should be respected. This builds a child’s confidence to assert boundaries, keeping them safer,” she explained.
Prof. Gachutha also urges parents to be vigilant about signs of abuse. “It’s essential to trust your instincts. If you observe behaviors or dynamics between an adult and child that feel off, don’t ignore it simply because the adult is a family member or friend. Sadly, 90% of child abuse cases involve someone the family knows, and 70% involve family members,” she noted. Abuse can also occur among peers, so monitoring relationships between children is equally important.
In addition to physical safety, Prof. Gachutha highlighted the digital risks that arise with increased online activity during school holidays. She advises teaching children about “good digital citizenship” to responsibly use the internet, explaining, “Children should be careful about what they post online, avoid sharing sensitive information, and immediately report any uncomfortable interactions or requests for personal information from strangers.”
Prof. Gachutha’s advice encourages a proactive approach to child safety, where parents can protect their children both physically and digitally by creating a safe environment and open lines of communication during the holidays.
