From 17th to 19th of September 2026, the Safeguarding Commission of the Thailand Province organized a seminar for caregivers of children and youth centers serving in the Diocese of Chiang Mai. Held at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, Pa Fang, the seminar brought together 26 participants from religious congregations, schools, and organizations working with children and youth in the area.
The seminar featured Fr. Korkiat Deesri, C.Ss.R., President of the Father Ray Foundation, and Dr. Kritawan Sarai, Vice Dean of the Faculty of Social Work and Social Welfare at Huachiew Chalermprakiet University. They shared practical knowledge and experience to strengthen participants’ capacity to work effectively, safely, and respectfully with children and youth.
The seminar began with the topic of “Positive Communication with Children and Youth,” emphasizing that caring for children involves more than maintaining discipline. It requires building relationships based on understanding, trust, and respect for each child’s dignity and worth.
Participants were encouraged to look beyond children’s behavior and consider the feelings, needs, concerns, and experiences that may underlie it. Active listening and appropriate communication can help children express their feelings and develop healthy ways of responding to challenges.
Later in the seminar, through real-life case studies, participants explored issues such as conflicts among children, failure to follow center rules, inappropriate behavior, and romantic or sexual relationships. They discussed appropriate responses and recognized that effective discipline should go beyond punishment or simple compliance. Instead, it should help children understand the consequences of their actions, take responsibility, make amends, and develop the skills to live respectfully with others.
Fr. Jittapol Plangklang, C.Ss.R.
