Set and respect boundaries

Everyone has rights to privacy in dressing, bathing, sleeping and other personal activities. These boundaries may look different depending on where you are and are helpful to talk about. Some examples might include talking about boundaries  when you are in public versus when in the privacy of your home or bedroom.

​If anyone - another adult, or a child who is old enough to understand privacy - does not respect these rights, adults should clearly talk about it. Some families may set family rules about how and when people can have or ask for privacy. ​

Teach children boundaries by showing them and respecting their "no"

Teach children that their “no” about their bodies will be respected, whether it’s  playing, tickling, hugging or kissing, no matter who the other person is, and no matter when. Model and vocalize this whenever possible. For example, ask a child before hugging them. If they say no, say "I hear that you do not want a hug. Thank you for letting me know!"​