By Fatimah Bintu Dikko

In the present society, parents are faced with the daunting task of raising children in a world full of dangers and threats. With the rise in cases of rape, incest, utilizing children for money rituals, and other heinous crimes against children, parents need to be more vigilant and proactive in instilling important values and skills in their children to protect them from falling victim to these atrocities.

The world today is a much scarier place for children than it used to be, with statistics showing an alarming increase in crimes against children. According to the National Children’s Alliance, an estimated 700,000 children are abused in the United States annually. In addition, the National Crime Records Bureau of India reported a shocking 91% increase in cases of child rape in 2018 compared to the previous year. These statistics highlight the need for parents to be more attentive and cautious in their children’s upbringing.

One of the crucial aspects of raising children in today’s world is ensuring they are aware of the dangers that exist and providing them with the necessary tools to protect themselves. Parents need to have open and honest conversations with their children about sensitive topics such as sexual abuse, incest, and money rituals. By educating children about these issues, parents can empower them to recognize warning signs and seek help if they ever find themselves in a dangerous situation.

Children needs to be educated about consent and boundaries from an early age. Children should be made aware that it is never okay for someone to touch them inappropriately or make them feel uncomfortable. By instilling a sense of self-worth and boundaries in their children, parents can help prevent them from becoming victims of abuse.

Parents should encourage open communication with their children and create a safe environment where children feel comfortable talking about their feelings and experiences. By fostering trust and openness in the parent-child relationship, children are more likely to confide in their parents if they ever encounter any form of abuse or exploitation.

In addition to educating children about the dangers that exist, parents also need to teach their children practical skills to protect themselves. For example, children should be taught how to recognize and avoid potentially dangerous situations, such as being alone with unfamiliar adults or accepting gifts from strangers. Parents should also teach their children how to assert themselves and say no to unwanted advances, as well as how to seek help if they feel threatened or unsafe.

Parents need to monitor their children’s online activities and educate them about internet safety. With the proliferation of social media and online platforms, children are increasingly vulnerable to online predators who may target them for exploitation or abuse. Parents need to set strict rules and guidelines for their children’s internet usage, as well as monitor their online interactions to ensure their safety.

Conclusively, parents play a critical role in protecting their children from the dangers that exist in today’s world. By being vigilant, proactive, and involved in their children’s upbringing, parents can empower their children with the knowledge and skills they need to stay safe and avoid falling victim to crimes such as rape, incest, and money rituals. Through open communication, education, and practical skill-building, parents can help ensure their children’s safety and well-being in an increasingly dangerous society. It is imperative for parents to be more careful and attentive in raising their children in order to safeguard them from the harsh realities of the world we live in today.