Let’s have a heart-to-heart. Just you, me, and that nagging question we all push to tomorrow: “How do I talk to my child about Good Touch and Bad Touch… without making it awkward, dramatic, or robotic?”
Now before you say, “But my child is only 6!”, let me stop you right there. Children these days are emotionally sharper and socially more active than your generation.
This is exactly why this conversation can’t wait until they’re “older.” Trust me, the only thing that grows with age is their ability to Google things — not always the right things.
So, let’s dive in. Not with fear, but with confidence and calm. Like we’re teaching them to cross the road — with their head held high and eyes wide open.
What is Good Touch?
Think: Hugs from mom (when you want them), high-fives after scoring a goal, holding hands to cross the street, or a pat on the back that says “You did great!”
Good touch feels warm. Encouraging. Uplifting.
But — and here’s the key lesson — it’s good only if your child feels okay with it.
Yes, even Grandma’s surprise bear-hugs put them off.
Because consent isn’t just a buzzword. It’s the Wi-Fi password to every healthy relationship.
What About Bad Touch?
Bad touch is anything that makes a child feel uncomfortable, confused, scared, or just… “off.”
No need to wait for dramatic red flags. If it feels icky, it counts.
Sometimes it’s obvious:
- Someone touching private parts (what we smartly define as areas covered by a swimsuit)
- Forced hugs, creepy tickles, or unwanted closeness
- Or, the classic “This is our little secret” whisper — red alert!
And sometimes, it’s subtle.
The child might not even have the words to describe it. That’s why their gut feeling? Always valid. Always worth listening to.
Why Children Don’t Always Speak Up
Because they’re afraid of getting someone in trouble.
Or being blamed.
Or — worst — not being believed.
So, here’s the hack: Be their safe space before anything even happens.
Say things like,
“You can always tell me anything. I won’t be angry or upset. I’ll listen and help.”
Also, throw in some practice. Like role-playing!
“What would you do if someone touches you in a way that feels weird?”
Let them say:
“I’ll say NO, run away, and tell you or another trusted adult.”
Make it a game. Keep it light. You’ll be amazed at how fast they absorb these rules — like it’s the latest cricket score.
But Wait — Isn’t This All Too Much for Their Age?
Not at all. In fact, the 6–12 age bracket is prime time for this talk.
They’re curious. They’re learning boundaries. And yes, they’re picking up emotional signals faster than we pick the cheapest item on Swiggy Pop-up.
By speaking early, we’re not scaring them. We’re preparing them.
We’re giving them a GPS for tricky roads.
Final Thoughts
This isn’t about being paranoid. It’s about being prepared.
And hey, while we’re teaching children about stranger danger and good touch–bad touch, maybe we parents can learn a thing or two about not forcing them to “just hug uncle, na beta, kya ho gaya?”
Let’s not teach our children that “being nice” means “ignoring your instincts.”
Let’s teach them that “No” is a full sentence.
And that their body, their space, and their feelings — are all 100% valid.
Because one open conversation now could save a thousand silent scars later.
That’s a parent!
