The Abuse Affair in Ariel: How to Identify Distress and Restore Children's Confidence

The affair of suspected abuse of toddlers in a daycare in Ariel has raised concern among parents. Mazit Refman Nadav, an emotional therapist, explains how to identify signs of distress in children, how to restore their sense of security through routine and open dialogue, and when to seek professional help.

The affair of suspected abuse of toddlers in a daycare in Ariel has caused great concern among parents. Alongside the investigation and the difficult testimonies, an important question arises: what happens to children who have experienced fear or harm from adults who were supposed to protect them? Mazit Refman Nadav, an emotional therapist and parent counselor, explains that young children almost never report what they have been through in words, but rather show it through behavior. Possible signs of distress include stopping speaking in kindergarten, clinging to a parent, regression in toilet training, nightmares, unexplained stomachaches, outbursts of anger, or unusual silence. The most alarming sign, according to her, is a child who has shut down and stopped asking for help. She recommends that parents adhere to three principles: talk to the child at eye level with open questions, maintain a predictable routine, and also take care of themselves, since feelings of guilt can make it difficult for the parent to remain calm and stable. Professional help should be sought if there is prolonged avoidance of the framework, social withdrawal, significant changes in sleep and eating, or persistent fear for more than two to three weeks.