By Delia Ruelas.

Ensuring the safety of children and teenagers during the holiday festivities is crucial to prevent any potential cases of sexual abuse.

To this end, the Karla Sembradora de Amor Foundation has shared a series of recommendations for families to help protect their children’s well-being during Christmas and New Year celebrations.

Activist Karla Parra emphasized the importance of building trust with children before attending holiday gatherings.

Parents should create an open line of communication, allowing their children to feel comfortable expressing if they feel uneasy or unsafe, particularly in the environment where the celebrations will take place.

Parra also stressed that children should know the names of their body parts, especially their genitals, and be informed that if anyone attempts to touch their private areas, they should speak up.

She pointed out that even a harmless pinch on the cheeks should not be allowed if it makes the child uncomfortable.

“If a child feels any type of abuse, they should feel confident enough to express it. Parents must reassure their children that they will always be believed and protected,” Parra said.

Another key recommendation is for parents to be vigilant of changes in their child’s mood.

“If your child arrives at the gathering or party excited but suddenly becomes sad, retreats to a corner, or wants to leave, it is a red flag that may indicate a potential risk,” Parra explained.

Parents should ask questions like, “How do you feel? What were you doing? Who were you playing with? What happened?” in order to assess any possible danger.

A third recommendation is for parents to pay extra attention to their children’s safety and, if possible, have one parent avoid consuming alcohol during the festivities.

This ensures that at least one adult remains alert to monitor and guarantee the children’s security.

“Sometimes parents drink excessively and leave their children in a room. Unfortunately, no one checks on them, and that’s when children become vulnerable.

“It’s important to remember that abuse within the home can also be committed by guests, such as neighbors or friends. Statistics show that these individuals account for 20 percent of abusers.

They plan their actions and will take advantage of any opportunity, especially when guardians are intoxicated or absent,” she warned.

Lastly, parents are advised to constantly supervise their children, particularly if they will be staying overnight away from home.

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