Well, Trusty never really went anywhere and has continued to be the hardest-working character in violence and abuse prevention. However, the much loved and celebrated c.a.r.e. kit that has introduced Trusty to children across the country for more than 30 years has received a full review and overhaul and is now being re-launched as Be Safe! This personal safety program for children aged 5–9, with a focus on child sexual abuse prevention, delivers key messages through a combination of storytelling, educational resources and experiential activities.
The new Be Safe! kit features: vibrant new colours and real photos; more downloadable components; stickers; new music from Charlotte Diamond and Raffi; and a new online course for parents and administrators. The changes have been informed by a more than year-long consultation process with teachers in seven provinces and reflect the most current trends in elementary education. Educators and children learn how to recognize and prevent sexual abuse and gain valuable safety tips, with Trusty, the Be Safe! mascot. Designed to be delivered in schools and other learning environments, Be Safe! provides children with the knowledge and skills to:
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Recognize sexual abuse and situations that may lead to sexual abuse
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Understand body ownership—“my body is mine”—and that they have a right to stay safe and be protected from sexual abuse
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Increase prevention knowledge and skills in order to stay safe
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Increase awareness of helping individuals, organizations and communities
Be Safe! kits are now in the warehouse and available for order. For more information please visit: www.redcross.ca/BeSafe.
Learn more about Canadian Red Cross' Violence, Bullying and Abuse Prevention programs.