Words hurt and be careful of what you tell children, said the winner of the Samoa Victim Support Group primary school poster competition.

Senio Vincent Peseta's winning artwork was based on the mental trauma faced by children when negativity is shown through words.

"The picture that I drew is a reflection of how words can damage our mental health. Words hurt more than physical abuse. Words have a way of hurting you to the point where you will end up making bad decisions," said Senio. 

"In that picture that I painted, I want to encourage our parents to use words of encouragement to boost their children's confidence and self-esteem. It goes a long way. 

"They need to stop using phrases such as "you are such a useless child" or "you are an idiot." It will not help your child grow. Instead, try and use "job well done son" or "I am so proud of you". These will help your child succeed."

Meanwhile, a science teacher won the poem competition for the open division. Sisavaii Torise Tupai told this newspaper about the inspiration behind her poem.

"The poem that I wrote was inspired by my mother and my spiritual mother, who has left our village and now serves in Iva, Savaii. I grew up under their teachings and their watchful eyes," she said. 

"All they ever did was teach me the bible and help my faith grow stronger and stronger. Part of my poem speaks of the role of mothers and wives. For me, being a mother is rewarding. Watching my children grow up has been the number one reward I've ever had.

"I am a science teacher at Itu o Tane College, and those students are somehow the same as my children. With my role as a mother, I can love and care for my students the same way I do for my kids. In my poem, I spoke of the struggles and challenges that come with being a married woman, but with the teachings I got from my role models who are my mother and my spiritual mother."

The President of SVSG, Siliniu Lina Chang acknowledged parents for their continuous support, love and care for their children which has made their efforts possible. She hopes that one day the students will consider working for the SVSG to help advocate for a violent free environment.