When it comes to discussing consent with children, it’s crucial to start early. Although the awareness of sexual assault has grown, misconceptions still linger. To bridge this gap, we’ve curated a selection of age-appropriate videos that effectively communicate the concept of consent to kids.
Videos for Preschoolers and Younger Elementary Students
For preschoolers and younger elementary students, the first video emphasizes, “This is your body. You decide what happens to it.” Created by Green Hill Studios, it presents the message in a straightforward and non-explicit manner.
Next, Ruby’s Studio offers a lively video that features an upbeat song with a catchy chorus proclaiming, “I may be young. I may be small. But it’s my body; I’m in charge of it all.” My seven-year-old was captivated and even shared her concerns about a classmate who tends to play too roughly at recess—an issue we’ll address promptly at school.
Videos for Tweens and Teens
Moving on to tweens and teens, a relatable video by the organization KNOW provides critical insights into consent. It highlights an essential principle: agreeing to one action does not imply consent for another. For instance, saying yes to a kiss does not mean you’ve consented to more intimate actions. Furthermore, it reminds viewers that it’s perfectly acceptable to change your mind.
Lastly, a clever video from Green Hill Studios uses tea as a metaphor for consent, delivering its message with humor and straightforwardness. This approach makes it suitable for both tweens and teens.
The Importance of Understanding Consent
Unfortunately, many people still lack a clear understanding of what constitutes sexual assault. For example, a survey by the National Sexual Violence Resource Center revealed that only 56% of men and 72% of women recognize “watching someone in a private act without their knowledge or permission” as assault. This discrepancy highlights the need for open conversations about consent, especially since if adults are unsure, how can we expect our children to be informed?
Start the Conversation Early
Don’t wait for your kids to become sexually active before having these important discussions. These videos provide an excellent starting point. For more information on related topics, check out our post on home insemination kits or visit the CDC for additional resources on pregnancy. You can also learn about medications and their safety during pregnancy at Intracervical Insemination.
Conclusion
In summary, it’s essential to equip our kids with the knowledge and understanding of consent early on through engaging and relatable resources. By doing so, we create a safer and more informed generation.