Child safety never takes a holiday: Why parents and communities must stay vigilant

• Astiba Kebong’o examines the growing risks children face during school holidays and argues that protecting them is a shared responsibility.
• She says vigilant parenting, responsible communities and safety-conscious children are the strongest defence against preventable tragedies.
• The article reminds families that a successful holiday is measured by every child returning home safe, healthy and happy.

School holidays should create cherished memories, strengthen family bonds and provide children with opportunities to rest, learn and explore. Sadly, for some families, what begins as a joyful outing ends in unimaginable tragedy. Reports of children drowning, being involved in road accidents, going missing or falling victim to kidnappers have become a painful reminder that child safety must never take a holiday. As families enjoy this well-deserved break, protecting children should remain our highest priority.

Developmental psychologist Urie Bronfenbrenner aptly observed, “Every child needs at least one adult who is irrationally crazy about him or her.” True love is demonstrated not only by taking children on outings or buying them gifts but also by ensuring they are safe, supervised and protected from harm.

Parents and guardians are the first line of defence. Before leaving home, they should know where their children are going, who they will be with and what activities they will engage in. During family outings, children should never be left unattended in shopping malls, parks, swimming pools, beaches or busy streets. A few moments of distraction can result in a lifetime of regret.

One disturbing trend is when parents take children out for bonding but become engrossed in alcohol consumption or other distractions. Family time should be an opportunity to build trust, instil values and strengthen relationships—not expose children to irresponsible behaviour. Children are keen observers and often imitate what they see. As educator Maria Montessori wisely said, “Children are not things to be molded, but people to be unfolded.” Parents must therefore lead by example.

Road safety and water safety require unwavering attention. Children should always use seat belts or appropriate child restraints, obey traffic rules and cross roads only when it is safe. Around rivers, lakes, dams, beaches and swimming pools, no child should be left unsupervised, regardless of age or swimming ability. As Benjamin Franklin wisely reminded us, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” Indeed, better safe than sorry.

Teach children to recognise danger

Equally alarming is the increasing threat of child abductions. Parents should teach children never to accompany strangers, accept gifts or lifts from unfamiliar people, or wander away from designated meeting places. They should know important contact information where possible and understand how to seek help from trusted adults, security officers or the police whenever they feel unsafe.

Children themselves also bear responsibility for their own safety. They should inform parents or guardians before leaving home, avoid risky places, stay with trusted companions, obey safety instructions and report suspicious behaviour immediately. Courage is not found in taking unnecessary risks but in making wise decisions that protect life.

Communities share responsibility for child safety

The responsibility does not end with parents and children. The community has a critical role to play. The African proverb, “It takes a village to raise a child,” remains as relevant today as ever. Neighbours should remain vigilant, transport operators should exercise utmost care, local leaders should champion child protection, schools should continue educating learners on personal safety, religious institutions should reinforce moral values and security agencies should respond promptly to reports of missing or endangered children. A vigilant community is the strongest shield against crime and negligence.

The Bible reminds us in Psalm 127:3 that, “Children are a heritage from the Lord.” Likewise, Proverbs 22:6 urges parents to “Train up a child in the way he should go.” Training includes protecting children, teaching them to recognise danger and modelling responsible behaviour.

Child safety is not merely a family issue; it is a national responsibility. Every child who is protected today becomes tomorrow’s responsible citizen. Every accident prevented, every life saved and every child rescued from harm strengthens our society. We cannot afford to lower our guard, even for a moment.

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As we continue enjoying this holiday season, let every outing be guided by wisdom, vigilance and responsibility. Let us keep our children within sight, within reach and within our hearts. Let us resist distractions that compromise their safety and remain alert to dangers that threaten their wellbeing. The true measure of a successful holiday is not how far we travelled or how much we spent, but whether every child returned home safe, healthy and happy.

Child safety is not a seasonal responsibility—it is a lifelong commitment. An alert parent, a responsible child and a watchful community form the strongest shield against preventable tragedies. By protecting every child today, we safeguard the future of our nation.

By Astiba Kebong’o

Astiba Kebong’o writes on education and child protection. He can be reached at jackiekebongo@gmail.com.

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