Parents teach kids to look both ways before crossing the road and to be careful with sharp objects. More often than not, they are not given awareness about their body and physical abuse. We try to protect our children by not leaving them with strangers and accompanying them everywhere. But the fact remains that children cannot always be kept within our eyesight and so the best option is to empower them with the knowledge that could save them from being victimised. Parents find it stressful to talk to children about their physical changes and sexual assault. Studies show that a majority of children subjected to sexual abuse are below the age of five and so the conversations about body safety should happen at a young age. Here are some ways which will help you in talking to your child about sexual abuse:
Okay to say ‘No’
Teach children that it is okay to say ‘no’ to touches that make them uncomfortable. They are often taught to be obedient and be respectful towards elders. Respect their decision when they choose not to hug or make physical contact with someone at a family gathering.
Familiarise them with their body parts
Knowledge about body parts makes it easier for them to describe issues, ask questions and express concerns. Even young children should be able to use proper names for their body parts so that they can report inappropriate behaviour without any hesitation.
Body boundaries
Teach your child that no one can see or touch their private parts except the a doctor in your presence. It is not okay for anybody to ask the child to touch their private parts as well. Sexual abuse mostly begins with perpetrators asking the child to touch them or taking their pictures.
Body secrets are not okay
Sexual offenders often use secrecy as a tactic to abuse children repeatedly or to protect themselves. They may use threats or friendly warnings, especially if they are close to your family. Tell your child that anything concerning their body can be talked with you without the fear of consequences. No matter what anybody tells them, secrets about body abuse should not be withheld.
Teach them how to get out of uncomfortable situations
When you model positive behaviour, they can differentiate between appropriate and inappropriate actions. If they feel that something is not right, teach them to trust their gut, raise their voice and leave that space. If they are uncomfortable to say ‘no’ to someone, ask them to give an excuse to get out of that situation.
School-based awareness programmes
Schools, as social institutions, are responsible for preventing child abuse and spreading awareness. One of the top CBSE schools in Bangalore, Winmore Academy conducts regular sessions on topics like safety and sexual abuse for both students and parents. Our Counselling Department holds expert sessions and talks to increase students’ awareness, identify unsafe situations, report any abuse they have been facing and protect them from its adverse effects. We attempt to alter the social stigma associated with sexual abuse and foster a healthy and safe world for our children.