Years ago, I read about how teaching your kids the anatomical names for body parts can be beneficial in case they are ever taken advantage of or to make private parts less “icky” — something that has always stuck with me.
I know body safety and private parts can be an uncomfortable topic for many parents to discuss with their kids, so I keep an eye out for advice or ways to make the conversation more ongoing and comfortable.
Huge disclaimer: I have no expertise in any of this, but I’m always reading to figure out what’s the best way to help my kids be smart about their bodies and comfortable talking to me with questions or issues.
A few years ago, I came across these two books by Patti Fitzgerald: The Super Duper Safety School and No Trespassing — This is My Body!
Every now and then, I read these books to my kids. Between the two, they are a little repetitive, which honestly I like that it re-emphasizes the messages. Messages include:
- Private parts
- Safe vs unsafe
- If you’re going somewhere, ask first
- Secrets vs surprises
- The “Uh-Oh” feeling (Intuition)
- What to do if you get separated from your adult
- Safe grown-ups and tricky people
- When you don’t want to be touched (even with relatives)
You could probably get away with only one of the two books, but I bought both because I like how they present the messages in different ways. I figure kids learn differently so maybe one book might resonate better with them than the other.
And to be honest, the last message I noted above– when you don’t want to be touched, even by a relative — that one resonated with me. As a parent, I remember these books anytime we get to the holidays or family events. If they don’t want to hug someone, I always make sure to loudly tell them that they don’t want to if they don’t have to, so everyone can hear.
When reading, I also ad lib a bit. For example, when the books tell you phrases you can say, I have them actually say the phrases. Loudly. Multiple times. They need to practice their boss voice.
I don’t know if either will make a difference in the future, and I hope they’ll never need to put these topics to the test. But as a mom, I try to help prepare my kids for the tricky world in any way I can! These books help me feel a little closer to that goal.
And at the very least, I think these books have helped me be a more understanding parent. I recognize more when they should have a voice about their bodies than I normally would have.
Interested in checking out the books? Click on the image or link below to get to the Amazon page.
Have you ever read either of these books to your kids? If so, what did you think? Or, have you found any other books or ideas on how to talk to your kids about body safety and private parts? Please, comment below! I’d love to hear your thoughts or tips!
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