Today 3 August, was a wonderful day of learning, movement and fun as Nei Mom Uprising celebrated Youth Day with our children at Tobwaan Te Rikirake Park.
At the heart of the activity was an important message: every child has the right to understand, care for, respect and feel safe in their own body.
Educating children about their body rights and personal safety from an early age is essential. Children need age-appropriate knowledge that helps them understand that their bodies belong to them, recognise appropriate and inappropriate behaviour, feel confident setting boundaries, and know that they can speak to a trusted adult whenever something makes them feel unsafe or uncomfortable.
Creating this awareness is not about frightening children—it is about empowering them with knowledge, confidence and a voice. Parents, guardians, schools and communities all have an important role in creating safe environments where children are listened to, respected and protected.
During the session, the children learned about caring for and respecting their bodies and were then given an opportunity to share what they had learned. Hearing their thoughts and seeing their understanding was one of the highlights of the day.
And, of course, Youth Day needed some fun! The children enjoyed three energetic Zumba sessions, bringing everyone together through movement, laughter and exercise. The celebration concluded with freebies for all the children.
A big Kam rabwa to all the parents and guardians for your support and for allowing your children to participate in this meaningful activity.
At Nei Mom Uprising, we believe that a child who knows their rights is better equipped to speak up, seek help and stay safe.
Protect their bodies. Respect their voices. Teach them their rights.
Tekeraoi riki ami Youth Day!
Healthy Children. Safe Children. Empowered Children.