Child sexual abuse is a widespread issue that has a profound impact on society. Perpetrators of such abuse are often known to the child. To prevent this abuse, it’s important to empower children with age-appropriate knowledge. Teaching children about the concepts of ‘good touch’ and ‘bad touch’ is crucial not only for their safety and security but also for nurturing self-worth, respect, and empowerment.
Understanding the Concept
According to Dr Shreya Dubey–a Paediatrician and Neonatologist expert, ‘good touch’ is any touch that makes a child feel happy, safe, and loved. It’s usually a touch that’s out in the open, like a hug, a handshake, or a pat on the back. ‘Bad touch,’ on the other hand, makes a child feel uncomfortable, scared, or confused. It’s a touch that is private, secretive, and often hurtful. It’s essential to explain these concepts in age-appropriate terms, using simple language and avoiding complex or scary details.
Why Early Education on ‘Good Touch & Bad Touch’ Matters?
Teaching children about boundaries from a young age is crucial for their safety and emotional well-being. As soon as children start to understand their own bodies, they should be introduced to the concept that certain parts are private and that no one should touch them without their consent. This early education lays the foundation for recognising inappropriate behaviour and equips children with the confidence to respond assertively.
Introducing the concepts of good touch and bad touch at an early age is essential for empowering children to protect themselves. When children are taught to distinguish between safe and unsafe touch, they are better prepared to recognise and react to uncomfortable situations. This awareness fosters a sense of security and helps children develop the confidence to speak up if something doesn’t feel right. When parents lead these conversations, they not only build a foundation of trust but also create an open channel for their children to report any inappropriate experiences.
Parents often face challenges and feel awkward or uncomfortable discussing topics like good and bad touch with their children. They may worry about using the right language or fear that their child is too young to understand. However, it is important to overcome these barriers to ensure that children are informed. Using clear and specific language, such as the correct names for private parts, can help avoid confusion. By maintaining a calm and straightforward approach, parents can create a healthy environment where children feel safe to ask questions and express their feelings without fear of being scolded or laughed at.
How Can Parents Teach Their Children About Good Touch & Bad Touch?
To effectively teach children about good touch and bad touch, parents can follow the below methods and tricks:
- Use Affirmations: Help children develop body respect by teaching them simple affirmations like, “This is my body; I honour it.” Encourage them to recognise which areas of their bodies are private and should never be touched by others.
- Follow the Swimsuit Rule: Explain to children that the areas covered by a swimsuit are private and should only be touched by parents when necessary, such as during bathing or by a doctor during a check-up, and only in the presence of their parents.
- Teach Emotional Awareness: Guide children in recognising their feelings by discussing examples of good and bad touch. Encourage them to pay attention to how different touches make them feel—whether safe and happy or uncomfortable and scared.
- Establish a Safe Circle: Encourage children to identify a small group of trusted adults they can talk to freely and feel secure with. This group might include parents, grandparents, older siblings, close relatives, or teachers.
- Responding to Bad Touch: Teach children how to respond to inappropriate touch by firmly saying ‘no’ or ‘stop,’ seeking out a safe space with others, and informing someone in their safe circle about what happened.
Ultimately, educating children about good and bad touch not only protects them in the short term but also equips them with the solutions to handle future situations confidently. This knowledge fosters a sense of self-respect and awareness that can have lasting positive effects on their overall development. While the conversation might be awkward, it is a necessary step in ensuring children’s safety and fostering a supportive environment. Open communication can make all the difference in keeping children safe and secure in their world.
VIBGYOR Group of Schools held a webinar by Dr Shreya Dubey (MBBS, DCH, DNB Paediatrics, Fellowship in Neonatology) on ‘Safe Touch Awareness’ for parents of pre-schoolers. You can watch the recordings of the session on Youtube for invaluable insights on ensuring the safety and well-being of your children.