How Christian parents can teach their children about consent

Society is developing kinder and more compassionate ways to teach children about consent. Modern day consent education is encouraging teachers and caregivers to explain to children that they have the right to have the boundaries of their body respected, that they have the right to say no to unwanted touch - here is a quote from one set of teacher guidelines about teaching consent

‘Sexual consent refers to a positive choice to take part in a sexual activity by people who understand the nature and implications of the activity they are agreeing to. All parties take part not because they have to, but because they want to. Consent must be free — an active, personal choice; it cannot be inferred, assumed, or gained by coercion or exploitation.’

Consent teaching is so important not just to develop a healthy attitude towards sex, but also to navigate situations involving touch. A child who is raised with an understanding of consent will know they have the right to say no to a hug from a distant auntie, or if tickling feels invasive.