92 HAWAII PARENT March/April 2024 swimsuit that he should run away and tell you immediately. Be sure your child knows that he will not be in trouble for telling you about the incident. Most kids naturally will seek body privacy around 5 years-old when changing clothes or taking a bath. Respect their wishes to demonstrate that they have a right and are encouraged to say what is and is not okay for their body. Keep the lines of communication open. Your child will feel empowered once he is able to distinguish safe versus tricky people. When he puts these strategies into action you will be a proud parent and breathe a sigh of relief. home alone. Question him about what he would do if someone knocks at the door and talk about who is appropriate to allow in and who is not. Have numbers handy for him to call in various situations and be sure he knows how to reach you. Do not overlook privacy when it comes to the body. Any part of the body that is covered by a swimsuit is a private area that is not to be shared with others. Of course there are exceptions like the pediatrician visit when you are present. Reinforce that if anyone, even someone your child knows, tries to touch him in areas that are covered by a If your child feels compromised in any way she should inform a parent or trusted adult immediately. “Your child should trust her instincts and never feel obligated to be cordial to someone who makes her feel uneasy.”
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