The Need for Child Safety in CBSE Schools of India
Author: Sumi Saji (she/her)
India has the largest number of children and adolescents in the world. The school mental health program (SMHP) in India has received feedback highlighting certain concerns related to children. These concerns include their challenges in reaching out for help independently, their lack of trust in adults (particularly if they have faced negative experiences with adults at home), and their hesitance to share problems at school due to fear of victimization (Raman, V., & Thomas, S. 2023). The studies about SMHP in India, suggest that there is a significant gap when it comes to the implementation of comprehensive Child Safety and Mental Health Programs in schools. While education plays a vital role in shaping a child's future, it is equally essential to prioritize their overall well-being. Unfortunately, many schools do not have adequate measures in place to address the crucial aspects of child safety and mental health.
Child safety encompasses a range of concerns, including emotional well-being, and protection against various forms of abuse physical, verbal, and sexual. There is a need for robust protocols and systems that prioritize the safety of children within the school environment. This includes awareness programs, policies, and training for educators, students, and parents to create a safe and secure atmosphere conducive to learning and growth. Additionally, mental health issues among children and adolescents are on the rise. Issues such as anxiety, depression, and stress can have a profound impact on a child's academic performance, social interactions, and overall development. The lack of adequate mental health programs in schools deprives students of the necessary support systems and resources to deal with challenges efficiently.
To bridge this gap, schools in India should prioritize the integration of comprehensive Child Safety and Mental Health Programs into their curriculum. These programs enhance crucial skills like resilience and stress management, which are essential for overall growth. Additionally, interventions like these will offer timely support to children experiencing psychological difficulties, ensuring that these challenges do not hinder their formative years. This includes creating awareness about child rights, educating students about personal safety, implementing anti-bullying measures, and fostering a supportive and inclusive environment both at school and home is important.? Furthermore, incorporating activities such as bully prevention and training gatekeepers for suicide prevention within the child safety and mental health program can help prevent undesirable incidents, including extreme violence and suicides among school-age children (Kumar D, 2021). The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights defines "school safety" as providing a safe environment for children from their homes to their schools and back (NCPCR, 2021). Therefore, it is important to not only work with children but with people in their environment like educators and parents to promote holistic well-being. While several school mental health programs (SMHPs) in India primarily prioritize teacher training, there is a growing recognition that the focus should extend beyond teachers alone. It is essential to include other professionals who can contribute to effectively working with children. The integration of mental health and child safety is crucial for promoting the overall well-being of students. By incorporating mental health education, improving access to counseling services, and providing training to professionals in schools, such as school nurses, in identifying and addressing mental health concerns, we can take vital steps towards ensuring the well-being of students.
By recognizing and addressing the need for Child Safety and Mental Health Programs in schools, India can take significant strides towards promoting the holistic development and well-being of its future generations.
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