Velda Frankim Occupational therapist

14/11/2025

💜 The Lasting Impact of Growing Up Around Gender-Based Violence 💜

Children who grow up in homes where gender-based violence is a daily reality often carry invisible wounds. Even when they are not directly harmed, witnessing violence can shape how they view safety, relationships, and themselves.

Over time, these children may experience:
• 🌪️ Emotional distress: anxiety, fear, guilt, or low self-esteem.
• 🧠 Developmental and learning challenges: difficulty concentrating or regulating emotions.
• ❤️ Behavioural struggles: aggression, withdrawal, or over-responsibility at a young age.
• 🔄 Cycle of violence: without support, they may repeat or accept harmful patterns in adulthood.

As paediatric occupational therapists, we believe in early intervention, safe environments, and consistent care — helping children heal, rebuild trust, and discover healthier ways to connect. Every child deserves a life free from fear and filled with hope. 💜

13/11/2025

https://c.org/bbPnfkgjpW

Declare GBVF a National Disaster in South Africa

12/11/2025

💜 💜 Recognising the Different Forms of Abuse in Children 💜

As paediatric occupational therapists, we often walk alongside children who have experienced various forms of trauma. Abuse is not always visible — it can take many forms, each deeply affecting a child’s development, sense of safety, and ability to thrive.

🚨 Types of abuse we may encounter:
• Physical abuse: Visible injuries or frequent unexplained bruises.
• Emotional abuse: Constant criticism, rejection, or fear that affects self-esteem and confidence.
• Sexual abuse: Inappropriate exposure or contact that violates a child’s boundaries and trust.
• Neglect: When a child’s basic emotional or physical needs are not met, leading to developmental delays or poor health.
• Exposure to violence: Witnessing domestic or community violence, leaving children anxious, hypervigilant, or withdrawn.

At Frankim OT we strive to create a safe, nurturing space where children can rebuild trust, strengthen resilience, and rediscover joy through play and meaningful activity. 💜

On the same note- thank you to amazing, caring, diligent team members who also carry this massive load!

10/11/2025

💜Why are we seeing purple profile pics everywhere? This initiative is to raise awareness and stand united against gender-based violence.
I believe little (and big) humans deserve to grow up in a world that is safe, nurturing, and free from violence.

As paediatric occupational therapists, we support children in building resilience, healing, and hope — but true safety starts with us all taking a stand. And if you think you are not being affected by this you are sorely mistaken.

The combined lifetime physical and/or sexual violence prevalence is 35.5% among women 18+ – ~ 7,847,438 women. That is only the reportable cases- and it excludes male victims (of which there are many)

And lastly abuse comes in many many forms- physical, verbal, financial.

Let’s break the silence, educate, and empower our communities to protect every child and family. 💜

28/10/2025