6 • MODULE FIVE: DECISION-MAKING
ACTIVITY TWO
Taking Risks
Group Check in- Tell the group that we will be looking at some of the risky situations that we face. We encounter
some risks in daily living such as when we cross a road or play a difficult game or run to catch a
bus. But some risks can harm us and we can choose to reduce them. - Ask the group to define what they understand by risk. Make the point that some risks are more
dangerous than others. Ask the children to give examples of activities that are less risky and
those that are more risky. With older children discuss risky behavior related to sex and HIV.
Draw them into a discussion about why they or their friends may be participating in very risky
activities. Ask them to list their feelings while they participate in such activities. The list could
run as follows:
Feel excited;
Feels powerful, can do anything;
Enjoys while it lasts;
Likes to be in the group; and/or
Is scared. - List the more risky activities that they or their friends may be involved with. The list could
include those used below, and make sure to add some if they have been missed. Some of the
risky activities are applicable to older children and some to the younger ones.
Carrying a knife
Getting into a fight with a bully
Having unprotected sex (for children 15 years and above)
Taking help from someone you do not know
Walking alone at night
Stealing
Sniffing typewriting fluid
Going to a sex worker (for children 15 years and above)
Using alcohol
Hitting a policeman/pimp or some powerful person
Taking money from a stranger
Cheating in exam