Helping Kids Establish Strong and Healthy Personal Boundaries

Kids with an understanding of clear, strong healthy boundaries more often can spot and report anyone who is attempting to cross or blur a personal boundary.

A boundary crossing can range from inappropriate touching; inappropriate questions, comments or suggestions; or inappropriate nudity, such as "flashing" or showing nudity on TV or in printed material.

Here are five things to keep in mind when talking about personal boundaries in a way that kids can understand:

1. Have your child stretch their arms out and talk to them about how this is 
the "personal bubble." This helps them get an idea of how big their personal 
space it.

2. Discuss what a persons "job" is. At this age, keeping the conversation simple and fun is most important. Make a game out of "guessing" what a coach, or policeman or babysitters job is (or is NOT).

3. Talk about the "uh-oh" feeling.

4. Remind children that everyone's bathing suit areas are PRIVATE! We all know that preschoolers often love running around naked in the backyard on a hot summer day, that is one thing, though, probably not something you would do at
the Seattle Center. Talk to your kids about the difference.

5. Talk to with your child about emotional boundaries. No one should make
 your children feel guilty or ask them questions that make them uncomfortable. Let 
your children know that no one should ask any questions or make comments about 
their bathing suit areas.

Kids who have personal safety boundaries in place and are able to speak up about boundary crossing, are often less likely targets for crime. 

About the Author: Kim Estes is the owner of and has worked with parents for over 15 years, educating them on various parenting topics. Kim believes every adult has the power to keep kids safe through prevention education.