Talking About Body Parts & Personal Space
Talking about body parts and personal space are the foundational lessons of personal safety. It is essential that when addressing the issue, the teacher should communicate accurately, without stigma or shame.
- Children should be taught that their body belongs to them and no one can touch it without their permission.
- Open and direct communication at an early age about sexuality and “private body parts”, using the correct names for genitals and other parts of the body, will help children understand what is not allowed.
- Teach children that they have the right to refuse a kiss or a touch, even from a person they love.
- Children should be taught to say “No”, immediately and firmly, to inappropriate physical contact, to get away from unsafe situations and to tell a trusted adult. It is important to stress that they should persist until someone takes the matter seriously.
Your confidence and clarity will help the children overcome harmful cultural and societal myths and learn the right information about themselves and their feelings. It will also enable children who want to talk about important health questions or an experience they’re concerned with, open up to you and speak out.
(image source: who has what, surekha.com)
