Chennai

Part of the School of Success, these kids also spoke about need for girls to learn self-defence. “There were kids coming to us and saying that their parents were not allowing them to play outside. There was a need for kids to come out and speak out. At the conference, they announced that their plan is to teach girls self-defence and value addition to boys. These children seek support from police and individuals help achieve that. They also want self-defence and value education made a mandatory subject in schools,” says Deepa Aathreya of School of Success. 

The murder on February 5, of seven-year-old Hasini, a resident of Mugalivakkam by her neighbour, a 22-year-old IT firm employee who sexually assaulted and killed her, has highlighted the need for sex education among young children and also make them feel aware about the good touch and the bad touch. Social groups are now ensuring that there is more awareness on this issue. Aware, a social organisation has been organising workshops for children and adults to help them deal with the issue. 

“As part of the “Save the Smiles,” we aim at bringing Child Friendly Environment, spread the awareness about child abuse, to help parents to identify and handle child sexual abuse survivors and evolve kid- safe champs,” says Sandhiyan Thilagavathy, the founder. As a part of the workshop, they discuss the myths and ways to identify the change in the child’s behaviour. 

“We have sessions with parents about child abuse and strategies to prevent, intervene and handle the kids against child sexual abuse. Also, we introduce kids to the concept of child sexual abuse and safe circle through rhymes, animated videos and activities. We also teach them basic self-defence,” says Krishnapriya H, a volunteer. Sandhiyan Thilagavathy says they have been running the campaign for a while now. 

“We have reached out to schools and communities, but most gated communities and resident associations were not very receptive to the idea about child sexual abuse. Though we have had talks and workshops in schools, it is only now that residential communities are understanding the need for more awareness. Several case studies have shown that the culprit is someone known to the family. Only educating the children and parents can help us make better spaces for children.”

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