Gender-Based Violence (GBV) remains one of the most pressing social challenges in South Africa. It affects individuals, families and communities in ways that often go unseen, yet its emotional impact is deeply felt. Even when young children are not directly exposed to violence, the atmosphere created by stress, fear or instability can influence their sense of safety and well-being. At ChildSol, we believe that every child deserves to grow up in a world that values respect, stability and compassion. That belief guides our commitment to awareness, support and education around issues that impact family life and community strength.
GBV is a sensitive issue, especially in early childhood environments where children are highly impressionable. For this reason, we do not introduce the topic to children directly. Instead, our focus remains on creating nurturing spaces and teaching essential values that help prevent harmful attitudes before they take root. These include kindness, fairness, respect, teamwork, confidence, and the ability to express feelings in healthy ways. When children learn these values early, they grow into adults who understand the importance of equality and who reject violence as a way of resolving conflict.
Awareness around GBV is particularly important in schools and preschools because these spaces often become safe havens for children. Teachers and caregivers spend many hours each day observing, guiding and supporting little ones. They are often among the first to notice changes in a child’s behaviour, emotional state or interaction patterns. When adults in these spaces understand the dynamics of GBV, they are better equipped to respond appropriately and to recognise when a family may be under strain.
Children learn a great deal from the world around them. Even if they cannot articulate complex problems, they feel the emotional tone of their environment. A child who grows up in a peaceful, respectful atmosphere absorbs confidence and calmness. A child who grows up around stress or unresolved conflict may carry those feelings into their social interactions and learning experiences. By raising awareness among adults, we help create networks of support that indirectly benefit children. This is why conversations about GBV extend far beyond the topic itself — they are about building strong, loving communities where children can flourish without fear.
At ChildSol, safety remains one of our core values, reflected in every aspect of our approach. Our teachers model gentle communication, conflict resolution and cooperation. Classrooms are structured to promote fairness and sharing. Routines are designed to give children a sense of predictability and reassurance. These everyday actions may seem simple, but over time they help shape confident, emotionally secure children who know how to treat others with respect.
The Purple Movement, which is recognised across South Africa, has become a symbol of unity in the fight against GBV. Participating in this movement is part of our commitment to standing up for safer communities. By wearing purple, engaging in awareness activities, and sharing information with our broader network, we reaffirm our responsibility to be part of the solution. This participation is not only symbolic — it reminds families and caregivers that ChildSol is a safe, supportive space where community members can find understanding and compassion.
The impact of GBV on families is often quiet and gradual. Adults may carry emotional burdens, tension may be present in the home, or family members may feel uncertain about how to seek help. Children in such environments may become more withdrawn or unusually sensitive, or they may express their stress through behaviour changes. While we do not discuss GBV directly with children, we do work to give them stability and reassurance. Teachers pay attention to how children interact, how they express their emotions, and how they respond to everyday challenges. When we notice a child is struggling, we approach the situation with sensitivity, focusing on comfort, routine and connection.
Parents often wonder how they can support their children during times when societal issues feel overwhelming. The key lies in keeping communication calm, simple and age-appropriate. Young children do not need to understand the details of GBV, but they do need to feel secure. Talking about emotions — happy, sad, worried or confused — gives children the vocabulary to express themselves. Teaching them that their bodies belong to them, and that it is okay to say “No” if something feels uncomfortable, builds a strong foundation for personal safety. Identifying safe adults they can turn to for help reinforces the idea that they are never alone.
Modelling positive behaviour is another powerful tool. Children watch how adults solve problems, how they speak to each other, and how they handle frustration. When they observe patience, kindness and respect at home, they internalise these behaviours. These early lessons influence how they treat others and how they expect to be treated in return. Every supportive interaction — from acknowledging a child’s feelings to resolving disagreements kindly — contributes to their understanding of what healthy relationships look like.
Communities also carry responsibility in addressing GBV. When parents, teachers, neighbours and organisations work together, a strong support system is formed. Community awareness encourages families to speak openly, seek assistance and break the silence that often surrounds GBV. It also allows parents to share resources, attend programmes or workshops, and participate in initiatives that promote family well-being. The more informed and connected a community is, the more capable it becomes of creating safe environments for children.
ChildSol remains deeply committed to strengthening our internal systems. We maintain strict child protection policies and continue training our staff to recognise early signs of emotional or behavioural stress. Our environment is built on compassion, and our approach is guided by ChildSol values such as Safety First, Community Focus, Empowerment and Confidence, Role Models for Teamwork, and Playful Learning. These values influence everything — from classroom design, to daily activities, to how we communicate with parents.
Standing against GBV is a long-term commitment. It means creating a culture where respect is non-negotiable, where children feel safe to express themselves, and where adults support one another without judgement. It means having the courage to speak up, the willingness to listen, and the dedication to offering help when needed. These values guide our staff, uplift our families and strengthen the bond we share as a community.
As we continue participating in the Purple Movement and raising awareness, we invite every parent, guardian and community member to join us. Let us continue building homes and schools where kindness is taught, where children are encouraged to communicate openly, and where families feel supported through difficult times. When we work together — patiently, consistently and compassionately — we build a future where children grow up confident, secure and free from the shadow of violence.
💜✨ Together, we stand for safety. Together, we support survivors. Together, we build a better tomorrow for our children.