Which statement is appropriate to tell young children about personal safety from physical abuse?

Which statement is appropriate to tell young children about personal safety from physical abuse?

• A. It is okay for adults to touch when they are helping you.
• B. People shouldn't touch you, and you can say NO.
• C. You should never tell anyone if something makes you uncomfortable.
• D. Touch is always okay if it's a hug from a friend.

Answer: (B)

Teaching children to recognize and set personal boundaries is essential for their safety. The most effective message gives a clear, simple rule: touching should not happen without your permission, and you have the right to say no. This frames safety around consent and empowers kids to communicate refusal and seek help from a trusted adult if anyone ignores their boundaries. It also avoids implying that adults can always touch when they're helping, or that some hugs are always okay, or that you should never tell anyone if something makes you uncomfortable. Those lines can confuse a child about when touching is appropriate and can discourage them from seeking help in unsafe situations.

Teaching children to recognize and set personal boundaries is essential for their safety. The most effective message gives a clear, simple rule: touching should not happen without your permission, and you have the right to say no. This frames safety around consent and empowers kids to communicate refusal and seek help from a trusted adult if anyone ignores their boundaries. It also avoids implying that adults can always touch when they're helping, or that some hugs are always okay, or that you should never tell anyone if something makes you uncomfortable. Those lines can confuse a child about when touching is appropriate and can discourage them from seeking help in unsafe situations.