Signs and indicators of abuse & Seesaw

Today during our PLD, Heidi from IOSIS shared some information on what the signs and indicators of abuse are. We dissected the signs or patterns for different abuses. The signs may include physical signs, behavioural concerns, developmental delays, changes or signs, the child talking about things that may indicate abuse and the family environment.

Our job as teachers are predominantly to report to management of we are concerned about a child. We are the eye and ears on the ground. We could rather flag something and it turns out to be nothing, than keeping quiet. Our first priority is the children's wellbeing and safety.

The part that stood out for me was the guidelines for response. There are some basic things you say when a child discloses to you. Believe what they say, say I am glad they told me, say I'm sorry it happened, let them know it's not their fault and let them know I will help.
Never ask questions, don't say it will be okay, don't make any promises and keep a poker face. 

Take note: If a child refuses to chat out of fear that you will tell somebody, you know something is wrong and should flag it with management.

The second part of our day we looked at Seesaw which I feel pretty confident about. Looking forward to trying it out in the senior classes.

So what:
It was good to get a better understanding of the SWISS processes and the role and responsibilities. And it was good to hear that there are people working behind the scenes helping students in need.

I have a better understanding of the signs of abuse/neglect and will make notes if I am concerned about a child, keeping track of specific incidents and dates it happened.