Sexual Harm

This week we talked to the children about staying safe from sexual harm in a way that’s age-appropriate and gentle for them.

We told our EYFS children:

Your body belongs to you.

The parts of your body that are covered by your underwear are private.

That means no one should touch them, and you shouldn’t be asked to touch anyone else’s.

If someone tries to do that, or makes you feel yucky or confused, you should tell a grown-up you trust.

You won’t be in trouble, and it’s never your fault.

We told our KS1 children: 

Your body belongs to you, and that means you’re the boss of it.

The parts of your body that are covered by your underwear are private.

That means no one should look at or touch them, and you shouldn’t be asked to look at or touch anyone else’s.

If someone tries to do that, or makes you feel uncomfortable, you should tell a grown-up you trust.

It’s never your fault, and you won’t be in trouble.

We told our Lower KS2 children:

You know how we talk about being safe—like looking both ways before crossing the street or not talking to strangers?

There’s another kind of safety that’s just as important: body safety.

Your body belongs to you, and no one should touch you in a way that makes you feel uncomfortable, especially in the parts covered by your underwear.

That’s private. If anyone ever tries to do that or says things that make you feel weird or confused, it is really important that you tell one of your 5 safe adults.

You won’t be in trouble, and it’s never your fault.

We told our Upper KS2 children:

You’re growing up and learning a lot about your body and your feelings.

It’s important to know that your body belongs to you, and no one has the right to touch you in a way that makes you feel uncomfortable, especially in private areas.

If someone ever tries to do that or says things that make you feel weird or confused, it’s really important to tell a trusted adult—even if they say it’s a secret.

You won’t be in trouble, and it’s never your fault.

The NSPCC’s PANTS Campaign is amazing for helping our children to understand that their body belongs to them and that they have the right to say No:

• Privates are private
• Always remember your body belongs to you
• No means No
• Talk about secrets that upset you
• Speak up, someone can help

For the PANTS song, please click here: https://youtu.be/_SzbMEVYiyg

When’s the right time to talk PANTS?

Every family is different, and when and where you have these conversations may depend on your child’s age, or how grown up they are – it’s all about whatever feels natural for you and them.

Some examples of times you can talk PANTS are:

• • After school – if they’ve had a lesson on personal relationships or Talk PANTS at school, ask them what they remember when they get home.
  • Bathtime – you could start a conversation when you’re running your child’s bath, or helping them get dressed.
  • Car journeys – this can be a great time to talk, and your child will have plenty of time to ask questions if they need.
  • Reading our new PANTS storybook together.
  • Singing – sing along to our PANTS song with Pantosaurus!
  • Swimming – a great time to say that what’s covered by swimwear is private.
  • Walking – walking home from school, or a weekend walk to the shops can help you both feel more at ease as you stroll and chat.
  • Watching TV – if a TV show features a sensitive storyline, you can encourage them to talk about anything that upsets them.