How Parents Can Teach Their Children About Consent

Consent happens when a person voluntarily agrees to the desires of others. As a parent, it is important to introduce your kids to the idea of consent as early as possible. Not only in the context of their bodies but even on other issues, like asking before giving them a hug or kiss, paying attention, and acknowledging when they say no. 

Your child must have an ingrained sense of identity from a very young age as it will help them assert themselves and even respect other children and adults. 

Here are ways you can teach consent to your child.

Let them know their feelings count, as well as others too

The best way to introduce consent to a child is to let them know that their feelings are valid, regardless of the situation. Be careful not to dismiss their feelings, rather train them to articulate their thoughts better and communicate how they feel. Encourage children to express their emotions and find their inner voice without infringing or dismissing other people’s voices. 

Encourage them to be independent

Kids often want you to trust and you should. Start by asserting that you trust their judgment on the littlest things, and as time goes on they become very independent. Especially as regards their body care and taking small decisions about it. 

Reinforce that No means No

Don’t encourage the notion that “No can mean yes” or that “silence is consent”.

Rather when you set a limit, go through with it, or when you give an instruction, don’t go back on your word. Kids are very smart and they notice the tiniest of details. If a child notices that you often go back on your word, they may believe that sometimes, “no” can mean “yes”. 

Effect boundaries and teach them to respect them

Teach your kids to set boundaries and respect other people’s boundaries. Your kids must understand that their boundaries are valid and that they must respect other people’s boundaries too. 

Teach your kids the importance of their “gut feeling”

Explain to kids that sometimes if something feels “weird”  and makes them feel uncomfortable, then, they should leave such situations. Teach them they don’t have to explain this feeling to anyone else or rationalize it. If it makes them uncomfortable, they should follow their instincts. 

Consent is a very key and important concept and as we’re hoping to include more of it in sex education that is taught in schools, as a parent you should also follow through with it at home. Consent is a two-way street, teach your kids to respect other people’s voices and most importantly, lead by example.

Read Also: Stealthing: California Bans Non-consensual Condom Removal 

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