Ages 3-5:

When giving your child a bath, you might say, “These are your private parts. No one else should touch them unless it’s a doctor checking to make sure you’re healthy, or me or daddy helping you get clean. Even then, it’s okay to say no if you feel uncomfortable.”

Ages 6-8:

In an appropriate setting, you might explain to your child, “Your body belongs to you, and you have the right to say who can and can’t touch it. Only doctors, who help keep us healthy, or parents, when they’re helping you wash or dress, are allowed, and they should always ask first. Remember, it’s always encouraged to talk about anything that makes you feel uncomfortable.”

Ages 9-11:

Learn to express self-autonomy like, “Your body is yours, and nobody has the right to touch it without your permission. Doctors may need to during a check-up to keep you healthy, or parents when they’re helping with something, but they should always ask you first. If anyone else tries to, please always tell me or another trusted adult.”

Ages 12-14:

Instill assertiveness, “You have the right to control who touches your body. Exceptions are when medical professionals need to ensure your health, or sometimes parents when necessary, and they should always ask for your consent. If anyone makes you feel uncomfortable, speak up, and always let me or a trusted adult know.”

Ages 15-18:

Reinforce independence and safety, “Your body is your own, and nobody else has the right to touch it without your permission. If anyone tries to, including people you know, it’s essential to protect yourself, firmly say no, and report it to a trusted adult immediately. Don’t forget the exceptions: medical professionals during checkups, always with your prior consent, and parents only when necessary. You have the right to feel safe and comfortable at all times.”