Lesson Notes By Weeks and Term v5 - Grade 4

Lesson Video

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Performance objectives

• Define abuse and violence
• Identify trusted adults you can talk to
• Explain why reporting abuse is important
• Know who to call for help in South Africa
• Learn how to help a friend who is being hurt

Lesson summary

This week, we'll be exploring a crucial part of staying safe and healthy: Knowing how to report abuse and violence. This is a very important topic because, unfortunately, abuse and violence can happen to anyone, even in our own communities in South Africa. Knowing how to report it means you can help yourself or a friend get the help you need. It also contributes to creating a safer environment for everyone. We all have a right to be safe and feel protected. This lesson aims to empower you with the knowledge and confidence to speak up.

Lesson notes

What is Abuse? Abuse is when someone intentionally harms you or treats you badly.

This harm can be in many different forms: Physical Abuse: This involves hurting your body. Examples include hitting, kicking, slapping, pushing, or any other form of physical violence. Imagine someone is constantly hitting you for making small mistakes at home. This is physical abuse.

Emotional Abuse: This involves saying hurtful things or making you feel bad about yourself. Examples include yelling, name-calling, constantly criticizing, threatening, or isolating you from friends and family. For instance, a person repeatedly telling you that you are "stupid" or "worthless" is emotional abuse.

Neglect: This means not taking care of your basic needs. This could mean not giving you enough food, clothes, or a safe place to live. It could also mean not taking you to the doctor when you are sick or not making sure you go to school. For example, if a child is repeatedly left home alone for days without food or supervision, this is neglect.

Sexual Abuse: This involves any sexual act that you do not agree to. This is NEVER your fault. What is Violence? Violence is using physical force to hurt, injure, or abuse someone. Violence can take many forms, like physical fighting, bullying, domestic violence (violence within a family), and even witnessing violence. Why is it important to report abuse and violence?

Your Safety: Reporting abuse and violence helps to protect you from further harm.

Other People's Safety: By reporting, you might be protecting other people who are also being abused or could be abused in the future.

It's the Right Thing to Do: Everyone deserves to feel safe and respected. Reporting abuse and violence helps create a safer community for everyone.

Abuse is Never Your Fault: Remember that you are never to blame for someone else's abusive behavior. Who are Trusted Adults? Trusted adults are people you can talk to about anything, and you know they will listen and help you.

They might be: Your parents or guardians Grandparents Aunts or uncles Teachers School counselors Religious leaders Coaches How to Report Abuse and Violence in South Africa: South Africa has systems in place to help children who are experiencing abuse and violence.

Here are some examples: Childline South Africa: This is a free, 24-hour helpline that children can call for help and support. The number is

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6. They can listen to your problem and help you find a safe place or get the help you need. You can call them anonymously (you don't have to give your name).

South African Police Service (SAPS): You can report abuse and violence to the police. If you are in immediate danger, call

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1. They will investigate and help protect you.

Social Workers: Social workers are trained professionals who can help children and families who are experiencing difficulties. They can provide counseling, support, and connect you with other resources. You can find social workers at clinics, hospitals, and community centers. What to do if a friend tells you they are being abused: This can be difficult, but it's important to: Listen calmly and believe them. Don't interrupt or judge. Tell them it's not their fault. Reassure them that they are not to blame. Tell them you are worried about them. Express your concern for their safety. Help them find a trusted adult. Offer to go with them to talk to a teacher, parent, or other trusted adult. Do not promise to keep it a secret. You need to help them get the help they need, and that might mean telling someone. Explain this to your friend.

Worked example

Example 1:

Sarah is being constantly yelled at by her older brother. He calls her names and tells her she is stupid. Is this abuse? What kind?

Solution: Yes, this is emotional abuse. The brother is saying hurtful things that make Sarah feel bad about herself. Sarah should talk to a trusted adult about this.

Example 2: