Three magic words — No, Run and Tell — can help children protect their bodies from abusers, says Uma Kasi, who has written three books on children's body safety.
“We teach our children so many things, but not how to keep their bodies safe,” rues Uma, who swung into action after reading shocking statistics of child sexual abuse in India.
Orlando-based Uma, who formerly worked with IBM and AT&T, teamed up with Elizabeth Becker, teacher of her five-year-old son, to write books for parents and children back home that dealt with the topic in a non-offensive, non-intimidating way. The language, of course, had to be really simple, for she wanted to reach children in smaller towns and cities.
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The book for kids sets out to do just that. Important words and phrases are marked a vibrant red, and in bold. It talks to children, not down to them. It lets them know that they might be accosted, but empowers them with the knowledge to prevent abuse.
Feelings play an important role in Uma's books. So, if kids feel “mad, sad, scared, and embarrassed…” it's time to act.
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“Those who've suffered extensive abuse are scarred forever. Others have memory flashes, and turn dull; their social and academic performance suffers,” says Uma. What angers her is the “acceptance” of such crimes against children. “Acceptance is bad. It is not okay to abuse children. You must report it so that others stay safe.”
Uma has tied up with some institutions for the ‘body safety programme' — Vellalar Matriculation School and Kalaimagal Kalvi Nilayam (Erode), AGN Matriculation School (Konganapuram) and a couple of schools in Coimbatore.
The best part of her books and the activity sheets in it is that they can be built upon to teach children better. “For instance, in AGN School, I was delighted that they had localised the content. They started their own exercises and allied activities,” says Uma, who is now looking to expand the programme to other schools.
But, how responsive are schools? “Some are receptive, but many are not. I'm gently reminded that this is not a chemistry guide!” laughs Uma. This, despite the fact that the entire project is gratis. Once she ties up with a school, she sends them a soft copy of the books, which they can print and distribute among children. She's also looking for volunteers to spread the word further and ensure kids open up.
“Knowledge is the key. I want to ensure that kids are prepared. They should know that improper touching of their bodies by others is not permitted. They should know that their bodies are sacred,” reiterates Uma.
Uma strongly believes that prevention works wonders. Because, once abused, kids get confused and clam up and silently suffer more abuse. “These kids are at an age when they really can't describe what's happening. That is why we speak about a “No Touch area” that is off-limits. It is simple to remember too,” she adds.
The guide to teachers and parents instructs on how to initiate the topic with their child. It also speaks about cellphone and Internet safety, vital at a time when kids share their most private moments on social networks.
The books have also been translated into Tamil by Udhayakumar Venkatachalam and Selvi Sivasami. Besides this, there will also be Telugu, Gujarati and Hindi versions.
If you're interested in this programme, mail her at umakasi@gmail.com
SAFETY MATTERS
Kids
Don't keep secrets from your parents
Don't let anyone take pictures of your body
Follow Internet safety
Adults
Reduce one-adult, one-child situations. Ensure the parents or caregivers are present
Be familiar with your kids' friends and routine
Be alert to the behaviour of adults in close contact