A new book, “Covering Children: Guidelines for Journalists,” has been published to help journalists better understand how to report issues affecting children.
The book’s author, Steve Aborisade, a Child & Media Development Advocate, while addressing newsmen on Friday, emphasized the importance of responsible storytelling when reporting on children.
Aborisade’s book highlights the crucial role media plays in shaping public perception of children and the potential consequences of irresponsible reporting.
The book advocated for respect children’s rights, protect children’s identity, trauma-Informed approach, balance public interest and protection.
Aborishade stressed the need for journalists to respect children’s dignity and rights, prioritizing their best interests over other considerations, while maintaining children’s privacy and confidentiality, avoiding disclosure of identifying details.
“Journalists should adopt a trauma-informed approach, prioritizing the child’s well-being over the story.
“Journalists should balance the public’s right to know with the protection of children’s privacy and dignity,” Aborishade said.
He added: “My past experiences with Projekthope as well as Wole Soyinka Investigative Reporting Award (WSIRA) now Centre for Investigative Journalism (WSCIJ).
“I have seen just how crucial responsible storytelling is. I know how powerful the media can be in bringing attention to important issues and driving change.
“I have seen how the media can rally support for those who need it most. And, I have also seen how easily this power can be misused, leading to the exploitation of children who cannot protect themselves.
“This work thus assumes that the media plays a huge role in shaping how we see things, and rightly so, especially when it comes to stories about children.
“This book builds on my Master’s thesis research at the University of Haifa, where I studied International MA Program in Child Development, and explored the presentation of identity and trauma issues among vulnerable populations.”
The book has received endorsements from experts in the field, including Professor Mojúbàolú Olúfúnké Okome,, Brooklyn College, CUNY New York, who noted that the book serves as a guide for journalists on ethically reporting about children.
Other experts, such as Lanre Idowu, Founder-Trustee, Diamond Awards for Media Excellence Trust Fund; and Akin Jimoh, Executive Director, Development Communications Network; Chief Editor, Nature Africa, praised the book for its emphasis on ethics and responsible reporting.
On his part, Lekan Otufodunrin, the Executive Director, Media Career Development Network, praises “Covering Children: Guidelines for Journalists” as a useful guide for ethical reporting on children, emphasizing the need for professionalism, sensitivity, and compassion in child-centric journalism.
Aborishade’s book aims to promote responsible reporting and protect children’s rights, ultimately contributing to a more informed and sensitive media landscape.
By following the guidelines outlined in the book, journalists can help ensure that children’s stories are told in a way that is both informative and respectful of their rights and dignity.
“Covering Children: Guidelines for Journalists” is available for purchase online at (link unavailable) or by calling +234 7082615021.
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