Scene 1

She was only 10 years old. Her father's cousin had come over for a few days. They lived in two bedrooms flat. It was obvious the uncle will be staying in the children's bedroom. They had a double bed where she and her younger brother slept on. The uncle shared the bed with them. The first night went by with no problem. But the next night, she felt a hand creeping up her leg.

This went on for the duration he was there. She never spoke to anyone about it. She was too ashamed.

Scene 2

The 7-year-old boy was being taught by a private Islamic teacher. The man was known to be a good Quran teacher. The teacher came in the afternoon when the parents had a small nap. The house was quiet and empty. The teacher and the boy would sit at the dining table and read. The Quran teacher would make the child sit beside him and recite. The boy recited but he would also hesitate when the teacher touched him. His hand down his stomach and ribs...

The boy feared and hated learning with the teacher. But he never spoke of it to anyone.

Verdict

There are many cases such as these where young children are sexually assaulted. But never ever speak up for fear, shamefulness or embarrassment. They have no knowledge as to what is happening to them. But endure it all in silence.

What happens then?

It may affect the child's personality where many times it is marked for life. Girls may fear of getting married and boys have even turned into a homosexual. It is a social taboo topic in our eastern and Islamic culture. However, we need to create awareness among our children and younger siblings so that if anything like this happens they need to tell us. We should take swift action.

Above all, we shouldn't trust our children or our younger siblings in anyone else's care. One may look very decent but we don't know what is in the heart.

Let the young child know that no one is allowed to touch them inappropriately. Have good communication with them so that they don't hesitate in telling you.

No child should go through such trauma but sadly it is more common than we think.

Perhaps, you may be able to help the young child and not ruin his / her life.

May Allah protect us and our young ones from all kinds of trials. Ameen.