Knowing the difference between safe and unsafe touch is crucial for children's safety and well-being. Safe touches are those that make a child feel loved and cared for, while unsafe touches cause harm, discomfort, or violate boundaries.
Appropriate Touches: Safe and Caring
Appropriate touch from adults should always be consensual and should never make the child feel uncomfortable. Examples include:
- Hugs and kisses from trusted adults: These should be given only when the child is receptive and comfortable.
- High fives and pats on the back: These are generally acceptable forms of affection and encouragement.
- Helping hands: Assisting with tasks like dressing, bathing, or medical care. This type of touch should be explained clearly and appropriately, ensuring the child feels safe and protected. (Note: Always prioritize the child's comfort and never force any interaction.)
- Gentle physical affection from caregivers: These may include cuddling or holding hands, but only if the child initiates the touch or is comfortable with it.
Inappropriate Touches: Harmful and Unacceptable
Inappropriate touch is any contact that makes a child feel uncomfortable, scared, or threatened. This includes:
- Any touch that causes physical pain: Slapping, hitting, pinching, or any other form of physical violence is never acceptable.
- Any unwanted touch: This includes hugs or kisses from people the child doesn't trust or feel comfortable with. A child has the right to say no to any touch, regardless of the person's identity.
- Touching private body parts: This is absolutely unacceptable and should be reported immediately.
- Sexual abuse: Any sexual contact with a child is illegal and harmful.
The key is teaching children that they have the right to say no to any touch that makes them feel uncomfortable, even if it's from a family member or friend. As stated in the reference material, "Safe (good) touches feel caring, like pats on the back or wanted hugs. Unsafe (or bad) touches hurt your body or feelings, such as pinching or hitting". Children need to understand this distinction and feel empowered to speak up if they experience unsafe touch.
