How Do I Talk To My Child About Rape? | Trusted parenting advice
"How should I talk to my child about rape?” This is a question many parents have. It may be difficult for you, but the most important thing you can do for your child is to start this conversation.
Because let’s face it, as much as we want the world to be a safe haven for our kids, it’s not. According to 2020 crime reports by the government, an average of 77 rape cases were reported every day and it is increasing perpetrated by people known to the victim. We also keep seeing news after news of children being rape victims.
There is nothing you can do as a parent to protect your children from what might happen. However, you can prepare them for these situations and discuss rape with them.
- Start with ‘Good Touch Bad Touch’.
The answer to the question “Mumma, what’s rape?” depends on the age of your kid. To a toddler, you could explain that rape is a bad touch that makes you feel uncomfortable. To a preteen, you could explain how some people force themselves into sex.
By 4-5 years of age, your kid should be able to understand that some people might try to touch them in a place where they don’t want to be touched. Starting at this age, you can tell them about the different kinds of touches, who might try to touch them, and how they can protect themselves.
Sadly, most culprits are usually someone they know, not strangers who jump out in dark alleys. For example, they might have an uncle or an older family friend who constantly tries to get them alone and touches them inappropriately. Tell your child that if someone they know (or don’t know) does this, they can tell you about it so you can protect them from the touches in the future.
Recommended reading: Teach Your Child About Good Touch And Bad Touch
- Talk about basic self-defense.
It depends on the strength of your child's body when to start teaching them self-defense. If they are strong enough, teach them basic punches and kicks to hurt those who try to harm them. Shouting and running is the best defense when other people are nearby.
If they want to learn self-defense, you can sign them up at a gym or dojo where they can take these classes.
Even if your child does not know how to kick or punch, they should know how to hurt someone using their hands and feet. Teach them basic body movements like elbowing, kneeling, biting and slapping so they can try to fight back when needed.
- Build Confidence.
Don’t be afraid to answer any questions that they may ask.
Make sure your child knows that you are willing to answer any questions they may have about rape or sexual assault. This will show them that they can come to you if anything goes wrong.
In most cases, these topics cannot be discussed in one sitting (in fact, it's better not to). So, you will need to have several conversations to cover this topic. You should already have a set list of topics you will discuss with your child before the time comes. This will alleviate both your anxiety and theirs since you will be well-prepared to answer any questions they might have.
Recommended reading: How To Teach Your Child About Consent
Recommended reading: Top 5 Books To Teach Your Child About Consent
4. Let them know it’s not their fault.
Make sure to tell your child that rape and sexual assault is not their fault. This will help relieve some of the stress they might feel
To Read More, click here: https://raisingchildren101.com/mumma-whats-rape-how-to-talk-to-your-child-about-rape/
Source : Raising Children 101
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