Sometimes adults and older children with a sexual interest in children intentionally expose children to adult and/or child pornography in order to stimulate the child’s interest in sexual activity. Sometimes these people appear totally safe and may also develop relationships with a parent in order to obtain access to a child.

Pornography, depicting adults or children, is harmful for children to watch because:

• It stimulates a sexual interest that may not be appropriate for the age and stage and level of development of the child.
• It may influence and shape their sexual orientation and activity especially as they may lack other sexual experience and therefore have no other reference point for healthy and responsible sexual behaviour.

For more information, read through the flyer developed by Childline South Africa  Info on Pornography Flyer (Adults) 1.52 Mb

HIV/Aids is a reality all children have to live with. In South Africa, statistics show that children are the most affected by the disease. It is important to remember that children who live in households with HIV+ adults and/or children, they are also affected by the HIV/AIDS pandemic.

Download  What you need to know - HIV/Aids 26.82 Kb

Any form of emotional and intellectual punishments that hurt children violates their rights. The physical punishment of a child always involves some form of emotional pain for the child as well. Emotional hurt takes a long time to heal and may require outside assistance. As a result, it is important to use positive discipline and find alternatives to corporal punishment.

Parents who become aware of corporal punishment in a school should approach the principal and thereafter the school's Circuit Manager.

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Bullies are found in most schools and communities. Even in the most disciplined or positive schools there may be isolated incidents of bullying. Both girls and boys can be bullied and be bullies. Bullying has led to children committing suicide or dropping out of school because of the stress of being bullied.

Sometimes children find it difficult to talk to their parents when they are being bullied and this may be because the bully is threatening them. Monitor your child’s relationships at school and take action if your child is either being victimised or victimising other children.

Download  Information on Bullying for Caregivers 27.30 Kb