From Zero to Seventeen and Everything in Between

Children are the foundation of our future; they are the building blocks to becoming a better and safer society for everyone. A willingness to learn, grow, and succeed; a child has the potential to gain the knowledge to not only protect themselves but others as well. How do we achieve this? Well, it’s simple. We talk about it, we talk to our toddlers, our teens, and all ages in between. We teach the importance of body boundaries, provide lanes of open communication, while supporting the needs of our children. As parents, caregivers, and educators we have the power to pass messages along that can demonstrate to our kids what is safe. 

Here at KIDS Center we created our Let’s Talk About It training. We go over healthy developmental body exploration, determine what is unhealthy or inappropriate behavior, and how to respond. This training is geared towards parents, caregivers, and those who work with children to have the opportunity to learn more about what is developmentally appropriate for children and how to talk about the different stages they experience. We walk you through different developing categories by age examining through a social, physical, and developmental lens. Participants will be given scenarios on how to handle certain behaviors that a child maybe displaying with a proper response and with a clear mindset.

This month our team is launching an updated version of our Let’s Talk About It training. In this update we expanded the age range up to seventeen years old, addressing a broad spectrum of experiences children face as they develop. Prior to this shift, the Let’s Talk About It training focused on children 0-12 years of age, but now we encompass the full range of child development by incorporating the stage of adolescence, addressing a wider demographic. 

Talking to your child(ren) early is the key to preventing any unwanted or unsafe experiences. Open communication and trust are crucial for developmental growth and are critical protective factors for children. Spending just 10 minutes a couple times a week with zero distractions and letting your child lead a conversation can build that foundation of trust and safety. 

Example of Conversations Starters (both general and prevention-based):

• How can you tell someone that you don’t want a hug even if it is family?

• What is your favorite memory?

• If you could go anywhere, where would you go and who would you bring?

• What is the hardest part about being a girl? A boy?

Learn how to have more focused conversations with your child(ren) about their bodies. Register for a Let’s Talk About It training!