Police are running workshops for kids aged three to five in Birmingham, teaching violence prevention and emotional control early on.
These sessions happen in schools. They use fun activities to teach kids. Children learn to talk about feelings then, finding out who they can trust and learning to be kind to themselves and others.
The project is called Bright Beginnings. It focuses on staying safe and controlling emotions. Kids learn to name and understand feelings, learning what to do when scared or angry.
Sessions last six weeks. Facilitators use stories and songs to help kids feel safe and improve self-esteem. Schools gain resources to continue the program.
Experts say violence prevention must start early. The Police and Crime Commissioner agrees, and Simon Foster thinks these sessions are key. Engaging early can reduce future violence.
Foster says early engagement is very important. Kids gain essential tools and knowledge; they learn to spot dangerous situations and how to help themselves.
The Violence Reduction Partnership funds this project. Birmingham and Solihull Women’s Aid runs it. Teachers track the children’s behavior and see improvements after the sessions.
Kids now express feelings without violence and handle conflict better. They are good friends, says WMPCC. These sessions build a strong foundation, fostering kids learning to embody good qualities.
Kids learn everyone is accountable for actions. There is no excuse for abuse, says BWSA; this fosters a culture of accountability. Staff also learn to spot domestic abuse signs to help identify victims at home, and learn how to offer support, too.
