儿童热线近年接收量增约三成在线聊天占大多数

Source: Lianhe Zaobao © SPH Media Limited. Permission required for reproduction.

Tinkle Friend, Singapore’s only toll-free helpline and chatline for primary school children, marked its 40th anniversary with a two-day outreach event on 21 and 22 December at Our Tampines Hub. The special occasion was graced by Ms Sun Xueling, Minister of State for Home Affairs and Social and Family Development.

Themed “Listening and Responding with Love, Growing with Trust”, the event emphasised the important role that adults play in creating safe, nurturing environments for children and youth’s mental wellbeing. The event featured educational exhibits and interactive activities, guiding parents and adults on effective communication with children, empowering them to be trusted allies in children’s lives.

In an interview with Lianhe Zaobao, Ms Gloria Ng, Deputy Director and Head of Student Service @ Children’s Society, shared about the trends that Tinkle Friend has observed over the past ten years regarding children’s worries. She also revealed help-seeking barriers faced by young people, such as disapproval from adults, past negative experiences and societal stigma. She emphasised the importance of genuine listening by adults to strengthen relationships with children and foster a supportive community for their growth and wellbeing.

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