Puppets Teach Kids About Touching
Puppets Teach Kids About Touching APRIL 8, 2006 On Saturday, the Marshall Public Library in Pocatello held a puppet show to teach kids what to do if caught in a similar situation. The library and a child advocacy group called “Bright Tomorrows” are trying to make sure that what happened last month doesn't happen again. The month of April is known as National Child Abuse Prevention and Awareness Month, and as a result, these children are learning how to take care of their bodies… and when to say no. "I would go to a house with a safety sign and ask if I could use the phone to call my mom,” said Juliana, learning from puppets. According to Bright Tomorrows, one in four females and one in six males will be sexually abused by the age of 18. That’s why the organization is bringing colorful puppets like these three to the area to teach kids. "It gives them a way to talk about something that they often times are encouraged to stay silent about by the sex offender,” said Kathy Downes, Executive Director of Bright Tomorrows. From stories to a puppet show, kids are getting the chance to talk about their opinions on the often touchy subject. "You can never be too careful, and you just want to be educated and be aware what the dangers are,” said Cindy and C.J. Butikofer, showing what they both learned from the puppet show. Luckily, during last month’s incident involving a 10-year-old boy at a library bathroom, things turned out all right; but some say you never know where child predators could be lurking. According to library staff, 18-year-old Kyle Merrill had previously applied to volunteer in the children’s department at this library. After being interviewed, Merrill admitted he wasn’t supposed to be around kids, and he was denied the position. “An offender, someone that wants to touch kids, will find a way to work their way into your life. They are attracted to places like libraries, schools... So be aware of where your children are, be aware of who they are spending time with,” said Downes. Downes says proper education and open communication can go a long way, especially when it comes to the wellbeing of your kids. A child abuse prevention workshop for parents and other adults will also be conducted on the campus of Idaho State University on April 27th. For more information on the event, call 234-2646. http://www.localnews8.com/news/local/2601991.html