Family Activity #3: Private Body Parts and Safe Touch

Suggested Age: 5–12    Time: 5–10 minutes

1. WHY TRY THIS?

This activity helps you understand what your child already knows about private body parts, appropriate touching, and personal boundaries.

The purpose is to listen first, not quiz or lecture. You can clarify anything your child is unsure about.

The goal is connection, understanding, and conversation.

2. WHAT YOU NEED

Nothing special—just a few minutes together.

3. TRY THIS TOGETHER

Choose a comfortable moment at home, in the car, or during another ordinary family activity.

Parent Introduction

"Let's talk a little about our bodies and touching. There aren't any trick questions. I just want to hear what you think."

Step 1 — Talk About Private Body Parts

Ask your child:

Question 1: "What private body parts of a girl would be wrong for someone to touch?"

Question 2: "What private body parts of a boy would be wrong for someone to touch?"

Note for Parents: These questions help you discover what your child already understands about private body parts and touching boundaries. They are conversation starters, not a complete explanation of body safety. Listen before explaining or correcting. Remember that inappropriate touching can involve any part of the body, not just private parts.

Step 2 — Listen and Learn

Notice whether your child:

• Knows the correct names for private body parts.
• Understands that both girls and boys have private body parts.
• Recognizes that touching private body parts requires appropriate boundaries.

If helpful, explain:

"In our family, it's okay to use the correct names for private body parts, like penis, vulva, vagina, and breasts."

Step 3 — Talk About Body Safety

You might say:

"Private body parts are private. No one should touch yours or ask you to touch theirs, except when necessary for health or hygiene, with appropriate care and explanation. You can always tell me if any touch makes you uncomfortable or confused."

Sometimes a parent, caregiver, or healthcare professional may need to help with health or hygiene. They should explain what they are doing and why. Children can ask questions and tell a trusted adult if something worries them.

Remind your child that they can say no to unwanted touch and tell a trusted adult. If someone breaks a body-safety rule, it is never the child's fault.

Child Choice

Your child can answer in their own words, ask questions, or choose to talk more later.

This activity is not a test.

4. CONSIDER PAUSE ✶ — THEN TALK

If something your child says catches your attention:

Pause ✶ — "Something caught your attention. Notice it. Do nothing yet."

Then, if helpful, use:

👀 Take a Look — "What's happening here?"

You might ask:

• "What do you think makes touching okay or not okay?"
• "What would you do if someone touched you in a way that made you uncomfortable?"
• "Who are some adults you could tell if something happened?"

One question may be enough. Sometimes Pause alone is enough.

Important: If your child describes possible abuse, threats, or unsafe touching, prioritize their safety. Listen calmly, thank them for telling you, and reassure them that they did the right thing and are not to blame. Avoid repeated or leading questions, and seek appropriate professional or protective help rather than continuing the activity. Do not delay necessary safety action to complete TALK.

5. ASK GRANNY

Have a question about private body parts, appropriate touch, or how to continue the conversation?

Granny can help parents find age-appropriate words and locate additional approved resources about bodies, privacy, boundaries, and safety.

6. BACK TO FAMILY ACTIVITIES