Small and Safe

Abstract

This paper seeks to address issues relating to the management of child protection in Singapore context. Currently the system provides an institutionalized multi-disciplinary approach to protecting children. The current integrated system of handling child abuse is comprehensive and thorough and seeks to serve the best interests of the child. However given socio economic and legal ramifications of child abuse, this paper proposes the following enhancements in the management of child protection. First reporting of child abuse should be made mandatory similar to the American model. Failure to do so should constitute an offence under the Children and Young Persons Act and to be punished appropriately. Second, educators, preschoolers or otherwise should undergo compulsory and centralized training in the management of child protection, since the state has undertaken responsibility in protecting children from abuse. Given the complexities of recognizing the varying degrees of signs and symptoms of child abuse, practical training is recommended for educators in addition to the sector specific screening guide currently used. Third, such training can be conducted by specialists in Singapore, Ministry of Social and Family Development, (MSF) and the training can be calibrated according to different levels of educators. Fourth, it is important to have continuous training and refresher courses to ensure that educators are up to date. Fifth, curriculum of preschoolers must include education/awareness of child abuse so that the young can act as the first line of defense for child abuse. Additionally the curriculum should also focus on programs that cultivate openness in children, and the ability to express emotions or not to suppress them as a sign of embarrassment or shame in cases of child abuse. Last but not least, a National Registry for Child Abuse should be set up. This should be accessible to designated individuals of seniority in MSF, police, healthcare professionals and principals of schools or senior designated educators/administrators etc. A registry with such accessibility will amongst others facilitate safe recruitment practices in schools, enhance response time for protection, enable informed reporting etc.