Consent is important when it comes to our bodily autonomy, and our personal space. When we understand consent we have the power to say ‘no’ when we want to, we have control over what happens to us, and it is less likely people will take advantage.
It is important for our children to learn about their bodily autonomy from an early age so that they understand that, despite being the less-powerful person, they are allowed to say ‘no’ to an adult who is asking for physical contact. If we feel uncomfortable as adults with people touching and hugging us without our expressed consent, then imagine what it is like for children who don’t feel empowered enough to refuse a hug.
When children are given the tools to understand ownership of their own bodies, and their personal space, then they’re far less likely to be sexually abused in the future. This means starting with family- sure Grandma may want a kiss goodbye but what are you teaching your child when you pressure them into physical contact they don’t want, even if it is with someone they love?
Check out these amazing titles, written to empower children and give them the tools to say NO to unwanted physical contact.
“Approximately 20% of girls, and 8% of boys will experience sexual abuse before their 18th birthday (Pereda, et al, 2009). Parents, caregivers, and educators have a duty of care to protect children by teaching them Body Safety skills. These skills empower children, and go a long way in keeping them safe from abuse – ensuring they grow up as assertive and confident teenagers and adults. Also included in this book are in-depth Discussion Questions to further enhance the learning and to initiate important family conversations around body autonomy.”
“My Body Belongs to Me from My Head to My Toes is an educational tool to help instill confidence in children when it comes to their bodies. The narrative of the story is led by a girl named Clara, who encourages kids to say “no” if they are uncomfortable with physical contact. The narrator gives readers tips about what they can say or do to avoid unwanted physical contact, or how to tell the right people in the event it has already occurred. My Body Belongs to Me from My Head to My Toes is an invaluable resource that gives children a voice in uncomfortable situations.”
“The latest installment in The Mother Company’s award-winning “MILES” series, Miles Is The Boss Of His Body is a fun, engaging way to explore the potentially difficult topic of kids’ personal safety. On his 6th birthday, Miles’ excitement is dimmed when he finds himself being pinched, noogied, hugged too tight, picked up and tickled by his well-intentioned family and decides he’s had enough! When Miles decrees that he is the “Boss of his body,” his whole family expresses support and respect for his personal boundaries. In a colorful, comic-book style, young kids will laugh while learning this potentially life-saving concept that can benefit them for years to come.”
“Louis is back! And this time, he’s learning all about personal space. Louis, a self-taught space expert is delighted to learn that his teacher has sent him to the principal’s office to attend personal space camp. Eager to learn more about lunar landings, space suits, and other cosmic concepts, Louis soon discovers that he has much to learn about personal space right here on earth. Written with style, wit, and rhythm, personal space camp addresses the complex issue of respect for another person s physical boundaries. Told from Louis perspective, this story is a must-have resource for parents, teachers, and counsellors who want to communicate the idea of personal space in a manner that connects with kids.”
“The aim of this book is to empower young children and to give them a voice so they can grow up into empowered adults. When a child, teenager or adult says, ‘No!’ to any form of coercion, this should be immediately respected. A world where ‘No!’ does actually mean ‘No!’ can be a world with far less violence and increased respect for humankind. By educating our children to have true respect for one another, this world can be a much safer and more positive place. Body Safety Education (aka sexual abuse prevention education) empowers girls and boys through knowledge, and teaches them they have the right to say, ‘No’ and to respect other’s personal boundaries. Both girls and boys need to learn to ask for consent and this can be taught from a very young age.”
“‘Some Secrets Should Never Be Kept‘ is a beautifully illustrated children’s picture book that sensitively broaches the subject of keeping children safe from inappropriate touch. We teach water and road safety, but how do we teach Body Safety to young children in a way that is neither frightening nor confronting? This book is an invaluable tool for parents, caregivers, teachers and healthcare professionals to broach the subject of safe and unsafe touch in a non-threatening and age-appropriate way. The comprehensive notes to the reader and discussion questions at the back of the book support both the reader and the child when discussing the story. Suitable for children aged 3 to 12 years.”
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