Talking to your kids about the PANTS acronym
A parent's job is never done, and ensuring your child is empowered with information that can help them stay safe and protected is a big part of that job.
There's a fine line between educating our children on how to protect themselves and instilling fear.
Teaching our children about protecting themselves needs to come from a place of patience and understanding. It should be done sensitively, which can be challenging when approaching the topic of abuse.
A mother who posts content that focuses on child safety shared something that every parent should teach their kids. It is called the PANTS acronym or the 'Underwear Rule'.
"Talk PANTS is a campaign designed to help children understand that their bodies belong to them and that they have the right to say "no" to anything that makes them uncomfortable," according to the Parenta website.
The acronym reveals key phrases that help your child understand how to protect themselves if they ever find themselves in an uncomfortable situation.
The Parenta website says, "By engaging in these conversations early, we can help children understand their rights and give them the confidence to speak out if something doesn’t feel right.
Developed with input from children, parents, carers, and teachers, the campaign focuses on clear, straightforward messages that are easy for young children to understand. It avoids using complex or frightening language and provides practical, reassuring advice that helps children feel safe and secure."
Watch the video below of the mom and daughter reciting the PANTS acronym, courtesy of Instagram.
You can use the guide below to teach your kids about PANTS.
Privates are private
Your underwear covers up your private parts, and no one should ask to see or touch them. There may be exceptions, such as a doctor or nurse, but they should always explain why they need to and ask for your permission first. Remember, what's in your pants belongs only to you.
Always remember your body belongs to you
Your body is yours, and no one should make you do anything that makes you feel uncomfortable or embarrassed. If someone asks to see or tries to touch you under your underwear, say "NO" and tell someone you trust.
No means No
You have the right to say "no" to anything that makes you uncomfortable, even if it’s a family member or someone you love. You are in control of your body, and your feelings matter most.
Talk about secrets that upset you
There are good secrets, like surprise parties, and bad secrets that make you sad, worried, or scared. If someone tells you to keep a bad secret, you should talk to a safe adult you trust.
Speak up, someone can help
Talking to someone is important if you ever feel sad, anxious, or frightened. Whether it's a parent, teacher, or another trusted adult, someone will listen and help you.
Courtesy of Parenta.com.
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