Safe Touch and Unsafe Touch: A Guide for Children
Educational Content Notice
This article contains educational content about child safety and body boundaries. It is designed for parents, educators, and children as part of safety awareness programs. The content is created by AADAR Foundation, a registered nonprofit organization dedicated to community health and safety education.
Introduction
Understanding the difference between safe and unsafe touch is an important part of growing up. Every child has the right to feel safe, respected, and cared for. This guide, created by AADAR Foundation, helps children learn how to recognize safe and unsafe touch, understand body boundaries, and know how to react in uncomfortable situations.
What is a Safe Touch?
A safe touch makes you feel happy, comfortable, and cared for.
Example: A high five from a friend.
Think about it: What safe touches make you feel happy? Maybe a hug from your parents, a pat on the back, or holding hands with someone you trust.
What is an Unsafe Touch?
An unsafe (bad) touch makes you feel uncomfortable, sad, or upset.
Example: Being pinched or touched in a way you don't like.
Think about it: What other feelings do you get when someone touches you in a way that doesn't feel right? Maybe scared, angry, or nervous.
Understanding Private Parts
Private parts are body parts that are personal and should be kept safe.
They are the areas covered by a swimsuit: chest, back, and areas that underwear covers.
These parts are private, and no one should touch them except a doctor, and only when a trusted adult is present.
How to Keep Private Parts Safe
Do not allow anyone to touch them.
If someone tries to, say NO, move away, and tell a trusted adult immediately.
Who is a Trusted Adult?
A trusted adult is:
Someone who takes care of you.
Someone who makes you feel safe and never uncomfortable.
Examples: parents, teachers, close relatives, counselors.
How to React if Someone Crosses Boundaries
Step 1: Back away and ask them politely to respect your space.
Step 2: If they don't stop, scream loudly to get attention. Say things like "Don't touch me!"
Step 3: If needed, use all your strength to push them away, run to a safe place, and report it immediately to a trusted adult, a counselor, or even the police.
Good Secrets vs. Bad Secrets
Good Secret:
Temporary, makes you happy, usually about a surprise or fun event.
Bad Secret:
Makes you feel scared or uncomfortable, lasts a long time, often involves threats if you tell someone.
👉 Remember: If a secret feels wrong, it is important to tell a trusted adult.
What is Consent?
Consent means giving permission.
Say YES:
If you feel safe and comfortable with the person.
Say NO:
If you feel unsafe, uncomfortable, or don't want it.
Always ask for consent before touching others, and respect their decision.
Safety Rules Every Child Should Know
It's not okay to let anyone take your photo or video without clothes.
It's not okay for someone to show you photos of people without clothes.
You decide who can touch you or come close to you.
It's not okay to touch someone else's private parts or let someone touch theirs in front of you.
Only doctors (with a trusted adult present) may check your private parts for medical reasons.
Conclusion
Every child deserves to feel safe, respected, and happy. Understanding the difference between safe and unsafe touch, knowing your body boundaries, and learning how to react in uncomfortable situations are powerful tools to protect yourself.
