This article was written by Kayelene Kerr from eSafeKids.
For many people, talking or even thinking about child sexual abuse, or anything related to child abuse, can be uncomfortable and challenging. But open conversations about body safety and protective behaviours is an important part of child safety and abuse prevention, and for intervening early when it does occur.
Sounds easy enough, and for some people it will be. But for many, these weren’t discussions we had growing up. That can make them feel awkward, uncomfortable or overwhelming, but they don’t have to be.
The right conversation starters can make these important talks easier, more natural and more empowering for both children and adults.
Instead of one big, daunting talk, body safety is best taught through small, ongoing conversations that build confidence and understanding over time.
When children feel safe, informed and comfortable speaking up, they’re better protected.
Why body safety conversations matter
The Australian Childhood Maltreatment Study indicates 28.5% of children living in Australia experience child sexual abuse before they are 18 years of age. That translates to 1 in 3 girls and almost 1 in 5 boys. To put that into perspective in a classroom of 30 students that is 10 girls and 6 boys.
Among children who experienced abuse, 78% experienced it more than once, 42% experienced it more than 6 times and 11% experienced it more than 50 times.
The data reveals not only the widespread nature of this issue but also the profound and repeated trauma many children endure.
60+ Body Safety Conversation Starters
Having regular, open and age-appropriate conversations about body safety empowers children with the confidence and ability to set boundaries and seek help when needed.
Download the eSafeKids Protective Behaviours & Body Safety Conversation Starters to guide meaningful discussions and keep kids safe.
You'll also find a range of other resources in the eSafeKids Free Members Community.
You may also like to check out the eSafeKids comprehensive, self-paced Protective Behaviours & Body Safety Course.
Please note: If you’re concerned that talking about this issue with your child will trigger a strong emotional response in you, or raise painful experiences from your past, I encourage you to seek support for yourself. You’ll find a range of support services here.
To learn more about eSafeKids workshops and training visit our services page.
To view our wide range of child friendly resources visit our online shop.
Join the free eSafeKids online Members' Community. It has been created to support and inspire you in your home, school, organisation and/or community setting.
About The Author
Kayelene Kerr is recognised as one of Western Australia’s most experienced specialist providers of Protective Behaviours, Body Safety, Cyber Safety, Digital Wellness and Pornography education workshops. Kayelene is passionate about the prevention of child abuse and sexual exploitation, drawing on over 27 years’ experience of study and law enforcement, investigating sexual crimes, including technology facilitated crimes. Kayelene delivers engaging and sought after prevention education workshops to educate, equip and empower children and young people, and to help support parents, carers, educators and other professionals. Kayelene believes protecting children from harm is a shared responsibility and everyone can play a role in the care, safety and protection of children. Kayelene aims to inspire the trusted adults in children’s lives to tackle sometimes challenging topics.
About eSafeKids
eSafeKids strives to reduce and prevent harm through proactive prevention education, supporting and inspiring parents, carers, educators and other professionals to talk with children, young people and vulnerable adults about protective behaviours, body safety, cyber safety, digital wellness and pornography. eSafeKids is based in Perth, Western Australia.
eSafeKids provides books and resources to teach children about social and emotional intelligence, resilience, empathy, gender equality, consent, body safety, protective behaviours, cyber safety, digital wellness, media literacy, puberty and pornography.
eSafeKids books can support educators teaching protective behaviours and child abuse prevention education that aligns with the Western Australian Curriculum, Australian Curriculum, Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) and National Quality Framework: National Quality Standards (NQS).
