Body safety and respect: age-appropriate education that protects children

Age-appropriate education about the body helps a child build a healthy sense of self, respect for themselves and others, and — importantly — the confidence and knowledge to stay safe. Children who can talk openly with their parents are more able to recognise and resist inappropriate situations and to speak up if something happens.

Start with the parents

It begins with parents feeling informed and comfortable. When parents learn a calm, matter-of-fact approach, they communicate more naturally with their child. The first lessons are modelled, not spoken: the respect, kindness, and equality children see between their parents shape how they treat themselves and others.

Answer questions, at the child's level

Don't shy away from a child's questions, and never shame them for asking. Answer honestly and in a way that suits their age. Children whose curiosity is met with calm, correct answers learn to trust their parents and come to them when something is wrong; children who are silenced often seek answers elsewhere and can't tell right from wrong information.

Private parts, and good vs. bad touch

From around age three, teach children about private parts: that their body is their own, that it isn't for others to play with, and that they shouldn't allow anyone to do so. Explain good touch (a hug from someone we love) and bad touch (anything unwanted), and that they can say no. If they can't stop it, they must tell a trusted adult — and that this is never a secret to keep.

Respect a child's boundaries

• Don't force a child to kiss or hug relatives — let them choose how to show affection
• When a child says they don't want to be touched, respect it
• Don't make a child display their body for others' amusement
• Avoid kissing children on the lips, so they don't normalise it from anyone
• Keep these conversations calm and reassuring — never frightening