Talking to young children about body safety is very important. It helps them understand their rights and feel confident in protecting themselves. Here are some tips on how to have this important conversation in a simple and caring way.
1. Use Simple and Clear Language
Children understand best when you use simple words. Explain that their body belongs to them, and they have the right to say “no” if someone tries to touch them in a way that makes them uncomfortable.
2. Teach the Proper Names for Body Parts
Using the correct names for body parts, like “penis,” “vagina,” “breasts,” and “buttocks,” helps children clearly communicate if something is wrong. It also reduces confusion and makes them feel more comfortable discussing their bodies.
3. Explain the Concept of Private Parts
You can teach kids about body safety without talking about sex. Tell them no one should touch areas covered by their swimsuit, and they shouldn’t touch others or look at pictures or movies showing those areas.
4. Talk About Safe and Unsafe Touch
Explain the difference between safe and unsafe touches. Safe touches can include things like high-fives or hugs from family members. Unsafe touches are any touches that make them feel scared, uncomfortable, or confused.
Talking about touches that are “safe” and “unsafe” instead of “good” or “bad” can help them understand without feeling guilty or having to decide what’s right or wrong.
5. Educate Them About Safe Secrets
Help them understand the difference between healthy and unhealthy secrets. For example, a surprise party is a good secret because it makes people happy and is revealed at the right time. But secret touching is not okay, and they shouldn’t keep any secrets from parents or caregivers.
6. Role-Play Scenarios
Practice different scenarios with your child. Ask them what they would do if someone tried to touch them inappropriately or made them feel uncomfortable to help them feel more prepared to handle such situations.
7. Make Sure They Know It’s Not Their Fault
Reassure your child that if someone touches them inappropriately, it is never their fault and that they should never feel guilty or ashamed. However, they must run for help to someone they trust.
Conclusion
Talking to young children about body safety can help them stay safe from being abused. The idea is to make sure they understand that their body is their own and that they have the right to protect it.
If you’re someone who experienced abuse, know that you’re not alone. Overcoming your past trauma can enable you to move forward to achieve greater things in life. Read Nancy Pusateri’s book, Rising Up: A True Story Of Childhood Abuse. The book begins by introducing Nancy’s roots, tracing her family’s migration from Greece to the United States, setting the stage for the story shared ahead in the book. Her mission is to empower those whose voices have been silenced, those who strive to make a positive impact on the world, and those who are seeking their true purpose.
Rising Up: A True Story Of Childhood Abuse -Available on Amazon.