Empowering children with information and knowledge is one of the most effective means of protecting them from sexual abuse and at the same time fostering empathy and consent-based relationships. In the United States, we often want to shelter children from sex and sexuality, which tends to create a culture of shame and confusion around our bodies while silencing the curiosity of children. Children need to be taught that they are the agents of their body, and that no one, not even family members have a right to their body or to do things that make them uncomfortable. These lessons can only be taught directly, with honesty and care.
Thanks to the organization, Educate 2 Empower, teaching these topics are easy (and via their website you can find videos, posters, and other materials in several languages.)
For the basics on bodily autonomy and agency, here is their short video, “My Body Safety Rules”:
And here is the information in poster form:
For more information, check out this article on My Body Safety Rules via Huffington Post Parents, or to find resources in languages other than English, visit the E2E website.
– Brett Goldberg
