The change in our children and how they act towards others starts with us.

If we can inculcate today’s toddlers and teenagers with a belief in non-violent and peaceful behavior and gender equality, we would gradually change mindsets and contribute to a South Africa free of the scourge of gender-based violence.

The message to parents is: You can set behavioral patterns that will guide your toddler prior to the age of six to be non-violent, by being a walking, living example of considerate and kind actions towards your partner, your children, and others.

Establish open lines of communication by making time to have conversations with your child. Put down your phone and focus on your child when they want to speak to you. Continuously ask them how their day was, how they are feeling, how their friends are and did they learn anything new that day.

Ways to help kids with Big Life Changes

• Explain that each body is different and that we don’t develop at the same time.
• Make time to listen to your child and talk about their feelings. Create a safe environment to talk about feelings and discuss different scenarios to illustrate how to handle the emotions they may feel.
• Use positive words when reprimanding your child or speaking to them.
• Being equal also means that everyone must help at home. Assign chores evenly and thank your children when they have done their chores. Create an environment where genders are equal and are there to support each other.

These are just a few tips on helping primary school children navigate through exploring their ever expending world.

Fathers of teens must teach them about consent and respect for someone else’s body

Talking to teenage boys and girls about the importance of consent is one of the most crucial aspects of teaching them to say no to gender-based violence and becoming peaceful and non-violent citizens of South Africa.

It is vital that boys are taught from a young age that boys and girls are equal and worthy of utmost respect.

Fathers must demonstrate that equality at home by setting an example, by treating their wives with enormous respect, and telling both their sons and daughters how special they are and why he is proud of both the boy and the girl.