by Irene van der Zande, Kidpower Founder and Executive Director | Sep 18, 2018
Recently, I was chatting with “Chad” – a normally light-hearted friend of mine who is a new father. Cuddling his baby daughter protectively, in a worried voice Chad asked, “I hear about so many terrible things happening to kids from their teachers, family friends, priests… people we’re supposed to be able to trust. Who can […]
by Irene van der Zande, Kidpower Founder and Executive Director | Sep 10, 2018
“Kidpower, HELP! My child has just been suspended for kicking another kid who kept pulling their long hair. Even though we have asked the school for months to stop other students from bullying our child, this school has a zero-tolerance policy that is being mindlessly followed, and does nothing to address the problem. I feel […]
by Irene van der Zande, Kidpower Founder and Executive Director | Sep 5, 2018
How to safeguard children while encouraging them to respect their faith. Steps for spiritual leaders and families to keep children safe from the new book “Doing Right by Our Kids.” Recently, a minister gave a passionate address to his whole congregation, “There is a lot of upsetting news that can be confusing for a Christian. I just want to be clear about where we stand in our church. Children should never be hurt, here or anyplace else. It is unacceptable to harm children. If you see anything that concerns you, you must take action…”
by Irene van der Zande, Kidpower Founder and Executive Director | Aug 29, 2018
I’ve got some amazing news to share with you! I am proud to announce that I have co-authored a new book. Now, as some of you may know, writing a new book is a lot like being pregnant and giving birth, only it usually takes longer. A LOT LONGER! Although it is less physically intense, […]
by Irene van der Zande, Kidpower Founder and Executive Director | Aug 27, 2018
What we teach and the way we teach it can make such a big difference to the safety of kids and the peace of mind of their adults. When we talk with children about existing or potential problems, it’s important to stay calm, no matter what they say, and find positive ways to help them join us in practicing safety skills.