Local Initiative Bridges Gap Between children and Law Enforcement
[CITY, STATE] – A new program is fostering positive relationships between young children and local police officers, aiming to dispel fear and build trust from an early age. the Police Outreach Program for Schools (POPS), spearheaded by the [POLICE DEPARTMENT NAME], is actively engaging preschoolers at local learning centers like Kidz World and Inventiveness Station.
Traditionally, some young children have exhibited fear or negative reactions to uniformed officers.Recognizing this, the [POLICE DEPARTMENT NAME] launched POPS to proactively address these perceptions. “This is were we need to start making the greatest impact,” explained [NAME AND TITLE OF FIGGS-SANDERS] to the Catalyst. ”We have preschoolers that would see men and women in uniform and be afraid. They would be timid and have negative reactions to our law enforcement.”
The program prioritizes interaction over conventional presentations.Officers spend time playing with the children, creating a relaxed and approachable habitat. These visits are coupled with small rewards like popsicles and lollipops, further reinforcing positive associations.
According to [NAME AND TITLE OF FIGGS-SANDERS], the initiative is already yielding significant results. “Instead of the children being afraid of the police, they welcome the police.”
Officer Moise Myrthil, who works with students at Kidz World, emphasizes the role modeling aspect of the program. “We become not only another connection for them, but also a mentor or a person that they can look up to,” he said. “My favorite part is when they ask simple but tough questions.” His interactions include activities like throwing footballs, playing games, and blowing bubbles.
Arthurene Williams, owner of kidz World, highlighted the program’s impact during the October 9th city council meeting, noting that over 100 of her students have participated. “Our children get to see that these officers are people just like them,” she said. “POPS gives them a new outlook. Children who once were hesitant now have the biggest grins and run up to the officers to give them hugs.”
Officer Nora Brachna,who works with students at Imagination Station,added,”Kids at their age are still forming ideas about the world around them. By playing with them, not just talking to them, we show that police officers are approachable, kind and safe.”
The POPS initiative represents a proactive approach to community policing, aiming to build lasting positive relationships between law enforcement and the next generation.
