Parents and guardians may hear and see less about what is happening in their wards’ lives because of demanding jobs, family responsibilities, and other commitments. In many cases, children spend more time interacting, relating, and playing with their peers and other people around them than with their parents.
When parents are too strict, distant or unapproachable, they may unintentionally make their wards afraid to speak freely. A child who does not feel comfortable discussing personal experiences, concerns or unusual situations with a parent may begin to keep important information to themselves.
This can create a serious security gap within the family. Children encounter different people and situations every day, and they may notice things that adults do not. When they have the confidence to speak, parents have a better opportunity to understand what is happening around them and provide timely guidance.
Parents should therefore create an atmosphere where their wards can ask questions, share their experiences and express their concerns without immediately being judged or condemned. This does not mean allowing children to do whatever they want. Rather, it means combining discipline with openness, so that children know that their parents are available to listen, guide and correct them.
A security-conscious parent and family should welcome useful information from their wards. Sometimes, a simple conversation can reveal a concern, a bad influence, a troubling relationship or an emerging problem before it becomes something more serious.
Parents should remember that the child who is confident enough to speak out allows the family to act. But the child who is afraid to speak may carry important information alone until it is too late.
Quote:
“Wards who are denied the confidence to speak their minds may easily be swept away by crime.”
Just be good. Reflect. Stay alert.
Author
Moruf Yusuf (Ojogbon)
ANIPR, MISN, FCAI, FIIM, MSPSP
📧 Email: maarufism@gmail.com | thesecuremind2026@gmail.com
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Saturday, 5th September, 2026
