Talking with Other Adults
Dropping kids off for a playdate, party, activity, etc. is a great time to remind kids of the body safety rules, that you love them, and that they can tell you if anyone breaks the rules or does anything that makes them feel uncomfortable. Its also a great time to share these empowering rules with other families.
Finding the Words
Sharing what you’ve learned about lowering the risk of abuse with your neighbors can help reduce risk in three ways. 1. If they or someone in the house is a predator, they will be wary of you and your child. 2. If they learn and adopt the body safety rules, they will enforce them in their own home as well, and your child will be safer playing there. 3. By sharing, you help more children be protected.
The Body Safety Songs help start conversations with kids, but how do we start these conversations with other adults? How do you bring up your safety rules with another adult without sounding like you’re accusing them of being an abuser? What would you say?
Scripts
Here are some examples of how you might start these conversations in a comfortable, non confrontational way.
These examples include ideas for talking directly to the other parent, or for talking to your child in a place where the other parent can hear your conversation. [Return to 3 Talks Menu]
To the child so the other parent hears
To the parent
To the parent
Talking to Babysitters
Share your body safety rules with the babysitter like you would any other house rules, ie: We ask before giving hugs. We listen to “No.” No playing or using screens behind closed doors, or without permission. Always tell if anyone doesn’t keep private parts private, says to keep a secret, or when they see pornography. Tell them your kids know the rules and that they know they can tell if anyone breaks the rules. These are great for the babysitter to know to protect herself as well! She is still at an age where she could be groomed or abused. You are empowering her and protecting your children. Do not drive the babysitter home alone with just you or just your spouse. If you have no other choice, then have the babysitter talk to a parent on her/your phone for the duration of the drive, or talk to your spouse on your phone during the drive. [Return to 3 Talks Menu]
FREE Download: Family Health and Safety Plan that can be displayed and shared with babysitters.