Dzimba Safety Programme in Latvia

Dzimba Safety Programme is a new child-focused child abuse prevention initiative for young children, their parents and teachers run by the Center Against Abuse „Dardedze" in Riga. An unique character Dzimba have been developed to serve as a mediator between children and adults and to provide children with skills enabling to recognize dangerous situations, dangerous people, safe and unsafe touch, different types of secrets and to say „no". The programme is adressed to a wide target group as it is by no means only child's responsibility to stay safe. Programme methodology includes interactive tools such as role plays, songs, games and videos.
The goal is to enhance a child's ability to avoid victimization and develop self esteem, to promote disclosure of abuse and victimization, as well as improve communication between parents and children about personal safety.