Safety and Privacy: What Every Parent Should Teach Their Child

Safety does not happen by accident. Every child should have the right to feel safe in their own body. Through shared experiences and open conversations, strong relationships are crafted.

This is a must-read guide that helps parents teach about body safety, respect, and confidence.

Make safety a daily routine

Connect safety messages to their everyday routines, such as bedtime or playtime, toileting and changing clothes. This ensures that learning is consistent while preventing children from feeling the pressure.

It’s time to rethink how children learn. Children easily remember things when it is a part of their day. Gradual, repeated activity over time leads to permanent understanding and confidence.

Ensure consent and choice

Consent means free agreement and feeling at ease at all times. Kids must realise that they can accept or refuse touching, even from the people they love.

Teaching children consent fosters self-respect, responsibility, and healthy boundaries.

Teach how to ask for help

Kids must know what to do when they do not feel safe. Let them learn that at any moment they can exit the situation and find a trusted adult. It is never wrong to ask for help, and you should make it clear.

Let it be known that their next step is important. Knowing this increases their confidence.

Mention the body conversation

When answering body-related questions, use proper and respectful language. Don’t change the subject or create awkwardness. It will shut them down.

A clear and honest answer can avoid confusion. Being open can help the children feel comfortable discussing what is bothering them.

Be safe in shared spaces

The norms regarding privacy apply in shared spaces, such as schools, clubs, playgrounds, and changing rooms. Children must know what conduct is acceptable in these settings. For example, letting them know that whatever is covered by their swimsuit should not be seen or touched by someone else.

Encourage them to raise their hands if something feels amiss. Reinforces understanding of consistency.

Be respectful through your actions

Show respect in day-to-day life by always asking for permission before entering private spaces or providing help with personal care. Admit it and say sorry if a line is crossed. Adults teach even more than they say through what they do.

Ensure your child understands that this conversation isn’t a one-time occurrence. A trusted adult can always listen to them and keep them safe. A positive environment will help a child feel safe to speak. Body safety education works best when there is trust, reassurance and care.

Body safety starts with everyday moments and grows through trust. When children feel heard, respected, and protected, they learn to protect themselves too. Small conversations today can create lifelong confidence and safety tomorrow.

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