Campaign urges Latvian adults to spot early signs of changes in children’s behavior

A new Latvian campaign is asking adults to look beyond the label of a “difficult age” when a child’s behavior changes. Such changes may signal emotional difficulties or risks linked to behavioral and addiction problems.

The Child Protection Centre launched the “Spot the First Signs” communication campaign to improve early recognition and encourage timely support. Its opening discussion, “What Lies Behind a Child’s Behavior?”, will take place on Sept. 4 during the centre’s Children’s Emotional Wellbeing Days.

Experts will discuss how to identify early warning signs, what they may indicate and where families can find help. Participants include journalist and Latvian Parents’ Organisation head Inga Akmentiņa-Smildziņa, psychiatrist Ņikita Bezborodovs and Inese Andersone, chair of Riga City Council’s Social Affairs Committee.

The campaign says adults should not ignore changes in a child’s behavior. It encourages them to ask questions, listen and seek help when necessary. Educational materials and expert content will cover early changes, conversations with children and available support through atbalstsberniem.lv.

Rita Paršova, director of the Child Protection Centre’s Support Services Department, said adults sometimes delay seeking help because they expect problems to resolve themselves or fear judgment. “A child needs not punishment for finding things difficult, but an adult who notices and helps,” she said. The campaign also aims to challenge the view that behavioral or addiction problems simply result from poor parenting.

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A child needs not punishment for finding things difficult, but an adult who notices and helps.