Summer vacation is a time for fun, freedom, and outdoor adventures—but it’s also a season that calls for extra attention to safety. Whether your child is headed to the beach, the park, or just playing in the backyard, keeping their body safe is essential. The incredible team at Susie’s Place recommend parents consider the following tips to keep kiddos safe.
Susie’s Place promotes the prevention, justice, and healing of child victims of abuse and violence while maintaining the comfort and safety of the child as the first priority. Susie’s Place has centers in Avon, Bloomington, and Terre Haute. For more information, visit their website, or contact John Graham, Education and Outreach Manager at Susie’s Place..
Empower Kids with the Right to Say “NO”
- Let children know they can say “no” to unwanted touch, even from adults they know and children of any age.
- Reinforce that their bodies belong to them, and that they do not have to hug, kiss, or sit on anyone’s lap if they don’t want to.
- Tell children to trust their gut. If something doesn’t feel right inside, find and talk with an adult in charge.
- Let them know they will never be in trouble for speaking up about confusing or scary situations.
Discuss Safe Versus Unsafe Touch
- Explain the difference between a safe touch (like a high five or holding hands to cross the street) and unsafe or secretive touches.
- Teach them the rule: “No secrets about touching.”
Review the “Check First” Rule With Your Child
- Before going anywhere, even with someone they know, children should always check first with the adult in charge.
Set Clear Boundaries for Camps, Sleepovers, and Playdates
- Know who will be supervising your child and how. Ask about adult-to-child ratios, overnight policies, and background checks.
- Teach children that if they feel uncomfortable at any time, they should call or tell a trusted adult, even in the middle of the night. Remember to reinforce they will not get in trouble for doing so.
Practice “What If” Scenarios With Your Child
- Role play with your child so they know what to do if someone tries to break the body safety rules. For example:
- “What would you do if someone tried to touch your private parts and told you to keep it a secret?”
- “If an older child at the playground wants to take you somewhere private and says not to tell someone, what would you do?”
- “What would you do if you’re at a sleepover (or playdate or camp) and another child wants to play a game that requires you to take off some clothes?”
