Staying safe: Keep this in mind
By: Team TeenBookAarav, Sara and their friends are excited about getting independence to do their day-to-day activities on their own! But there are a few things they ought to keep in mind to truly enjoy this phase. Let's know what they are.
It's tough out there
I was walking back home yesterday from my tuition class. Just then a person tried to sell me some kind of cigarettes. I ran back home and reached home panting. I am not sure but I think my friends were also talking about him at school.
I too had a scary experience yesterday. A person kept following me home on my way back from Nisha’s place. I came home and told Ammi about it. But I still feel nervous.
KEEPING SAFE
- When we are younger, our parents or caretakers protect us from everything.
- As we grow, we gradually start becoming independent.
- That is when we need lesser support from our parents or other adults in doing our day-to-day activities, like going to the tuition class or visiting a friend.
- As we start doing things more independently, we need to also learn to protect ourselves.
- Just like we have fences, doors and walls to protect our house or surroundings, we also need to protect ourselves
Takes all my energy
Hmm….I don’t quite like going to the basketball class these days. It’s just not fun anymore because of Rohan from Section B. He deliberately tries to come close when I am dribbling and the other day he tried to hold my hand. It’s like I have to now spend the entire class avoiding him.
THIS IS HARASSMENT
- Sometimes you might face a situation when someone tries to make you feel uncomfortable.
- Any behaviour that makes you feel bad or uncomfortable, for example, abusive words, unwanted touching of body parts, hitting or forcing you to do something you do not want to do is called harassment.
- It’s important to know when you are being harassed and talk to people you trust.
- If you or someone you know face harassment, you may consider doing the following –
- Say ‘no’ to the person in a firm voice.
- Complain to school authorities if it happens at school.
- Talk to your parents, your school counsellor or a trusted adult.
- Don’t feel embarrassed or ashamed. It’s not your fault.
It's virtual
I have a new friend. His name is – JAZ13. Okay, I know that’s not his real name. But we met online and I really enjoyed talking to him. We now often play our favourite fighter game together and spend hours chatting. Yesterday he shared pictures of his pet cats. They were so adorable! He then asked me for my picture. I’ll send him one with our pet dog Buzo!
ONLINE SAFETY
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Come on, just one!
I told my friends about the man who tried to sell me cigarettes outside school. Asheesh said, ‘Did you try it? It’s quite cool you know. In fact, try it, I have one now!’
I wasn’t sure what to do. What if my parents found out! Some of my other friends were quite excited to try though. ‘It’s just this one time!’, they said.
SAY NO TO DRUGS
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Viruses and more!
Yesterday, I saw some posts about World AIDS Day on Facebook and Instagram. I understood that AIDS is caused by a virus called HIV. But I wasn’t sure how it occurs or how it spreads. it did sound a bit worrying though especially as there is no cure.
AWARENESS IS PREVENTION
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I can't stand it any more
I moved from Darjeeling just very recently. It’s so hot out here. But honestly that’s not the worst thing. I hate my new school. They have never seemed to have met anyone outside of this city. Everyday I get teased at school - sometimes they call me names at the playground, push me around at the canteen or hassle me on the bus. It’s just getting too much.
SAY NO TO BULLYING
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Now I know
I was initially quite excited about going to tution classes on my own. But then this cigarette incident happened. I was so anxious for a few days. But talking to Bhaiya helped. He said it happened to him too. And that I had to just tell that guy to stay away. It worked! I am glad I can talk to Bhaiya about these things.
It was amazing how Vikrant Sir got those boys to calm down yesterday. I am so glad I decided to speak to our school counsellor. He also helped me join a few hobby clubs and I have now found friends who share my interests. It’s such a relief. I still miss Darjeeling but I have begun to enjoy my new school.
ALL ABOUT STAYING SAFE
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