Give Kids A Safe Place to Land
By: Sue Brage of Church Volunteer Daily
National Child Abuse Prevention Month was created to raise our awareness and inspire us to do all we can to protect children from sexual abuse. The fact is one in four girls and one in six boys will be sexually abused by the age of 18. And nearly 70% of all sexual assaults involve minors under the age of 17. Those serving in churches, schools, and other community organizations have most likely completed the routine background checks necessary to work with children. We go to great lengths to protect kids; yet, we just can’t protect them from everything. Today’s kids face challenges and struggles I couldn’t even imagine when I was young! I’m thinking right now of a couple young people I know…
The 8-year-old boy just finishing chemo for a malignant brain tumor.
A 13-year-old girl who is reeling from her father’s sudden break from the family and the imminent divorce to follow.
The 16-year-old boy already addicted to pornography, wondering if he will ever live a normal life.
A young woman in her early 20s who has dealt with eating disorders for the more than 10 years.
These situations remind us that kids today face some tough times. Whether they are abuse survivors, dealing with health issues, or just living in extreme circumstances, kids need our support and understanding. As volunteers in our churched, schools, or communities, we have the opportunity to be a positive influence and encouragement to every child we come in contact with.
Here are three truths to remember as you work with kids throughout the month—and every day!
Today's kids are wounded.
I know in my experience as a parent, even in the last couple of years, I have met young men and women with wounds that would cripple most adults. They carry tremendous baggage from past abuses, broken families, school pressure, and even violence. While this is not news to anyone who works with children on a regular basis, it’s a reminder that the kids in our communities are dealing with issues we can’t even imagine. They need a gentle word, a kind smile, and people who will reach out to them with compassion and grace.
How can you reach out to hurting kids in your class or church community?
Today's kids are stressed.
Kids are under enormous pressure: school, homework, sports, music lessons, choir practice, and so on. My 12-year-old niece leaves the house at 6:30 am for school and rarely gets home before 8 pm. This kind of stress can take a toll and impact a child’s physical and mental health. As a result, their tender emotions may be frayed. If we want to encourage the kids in our lives, we need to find ways to ease their stress. This may mean letting go of some of our expectations and having a little more fun!
How can you help reduce stress for the kids in your congregation?
Today's kids need us.
This is the most important truth of all. The children in our lives and churches need us to care about them and to make their welfare a priority. We need to learn how to love them, talk to them, and listen to them. Of course, in abusive cases, we also need to know how to protect them. Make a point to read and learn more about how to listen and love the kids in your life, in appropriate and meaningful ways. Encourage your circle of friends to become safe adults for any child who needs a friend.
How can you "be there" for kids who need you?
Today’s kids are just that—kids.
Remembering, that although they may face their share of adult pressure (too much to do, unrealistic demands and expectations, physical stress, addictions and domestic abuse), at heart they are still kids. They long for our approval, encouragement, and love. It’s up to us to shelter and protect them whenever possible, and let them know they aren’t alone in a grown up world.
Sue Brage worked in nonprofit marketing and communications for more than nine years before joining Group Publishing as Online Publisher and Editor for Church Volunteer Daily.com. Her experience as a writer, editor, and volunteer coordinator (not to mention wife and mother) gives her a unique perspective and ability to encourage and help leaders. She has a big heart for people and great passion for helping others serve their churches and communities better. Follow Sue on Twitter at @SueB rage and @CVCDaily
