We hope that the information from our workshops will provide information to families on parenting in Canada that will assist with the challenges of learning the rules of parenting children in Canada so that families can make informed decisions on the safely and wellbeing of their children in the Canadian context.

As we explain in our workshops, Canadian Law protects the rights and safety of children. This means that Social Workers and Police are expected to help enforce this law. This means that if there’s a report that a child has an appearance of being unsafe (neglected, abused, or otherwise at risk), there will be a follow up investigation from Social Workers and Police to determine if the child is safe in their home or any other setting they might find themselves in.

The appearance of Social Workers and Police to our homes can feel extremely intimidating and fear inducing. We hope that having this information nearby will assist a parent/guardian if/when a meeting like this happens. We know that it may be extremely hard to remain calm when faced with this kind of situation, but keep this magnet nearby and try to remember these tips that may help as the investigation process unfolds.

1. Be Cooperative

   The investigation process happens to determine the safety of the children, cooperating with the investigation may provide several important helps that cannot happen if not cooperative.

   1. Investigation happens faster (which may mean it’s resolved faster)

   2. Following instructions of officials will show a willingness to do what is necessary to provide a safe environment for your child or children

2. Be Honest

   The investigation may mean you’re asked direct questions about the reported situation, in this situation it is important to be honest and tell the truth. Hiding the truth causes suspicion and additional problems in the investigation. The truth has a way of being revealed - no matter how hard we may try to hide it.

3. Ask for an Interpreter (if needed)

   If your conversational english isn’t very strong yet, please ask for an interpreter - one should be provided to you. There will be questions, information, and conversation that you will want to understand clearly.

4. Call for Help

   Call someone that you trust and respect to come help and be with you. Hopefully, this person would be less emotional, able to advocate for you, and also listen to the instructions provided and help you remember important information. This person can also be a comfort to you at this time.

   Who will you call? We ask our workshop participants to decide on the day of the workshop who they would ask to come help them. This is to inspire everyone to have this decision made so that if an investigation happens, this decision is already made and can be calmly put into action.

PLEASE NOTE

This list of actions provided on your magnet and here on our website isn’t intended to simplify the process, they are also not provided to trick or manipulate the process of investigation. But it is hoped that these 4 reminders will help correct some of the most commonly made mistakes that result in additional concerns for parents/guardians when an investigation unfolds.

RESOURCES

For more information and education, visit our resources page.