Mom shares the 'PANTS' rule, something all kids should learn
PANTS is an acronym that helps kids remember key things to keep themselves safe, which also helps them speak up when and if they need to.
The list of parental responsibilities is endless. When you think you're in control, something new and more complex pops up, leaving you feeling somewhat challenged and perplexed.
No one knows everything as a parent, so when faced with challenges outside your expertise, the only natural thing to do is seek help from other parents.
Most likely, someone out there has been through it before and can offer advice or assistance.
It is our responsibility to teach our kids about keeping their bodies safe and what to do if they feel someone has hurt them in any way. While this may be daunting, empowering our kids with the knowledge is necessary. You cannot trust everyone, and even people who are supposed to be trustworthy can disappoint you.
A mother, who often shares how she educates her two girls about staying safe, revealed an interesting acronym she taught her daughter to remember.
The acronym is PANTS, and it stands for key phrases that will help your child keep themselves safe against sexual abuse. The PANTS acronym is also referred to as the 'Underwear Rule'.
According to the Parenta website: "By engaging in these conversations early, we can help children understand their rights and give them the confidence to speak out if something doesn’t feel right."
There isn't a right or wrong time to talk to your children about their safety. It is something that should be approached with your child as they grow. The main thing is to approach it as a normal discussion, as they grow old enough to understand right from wromg.
Watch the video below from Instagram.
Look at what the PANTS acronym stands for below and use this as a guide to teach your child more about it.
Privates are private
Your underwear covers up your private parts, and no one should ask to see or touch them. There may be exceptions, such as a doctor or nurse, but they should always explain why they need to and ask for your permission first. Remember, what's in your pants belongs only to you.
Always remember your body belongs to you
Your body is yours, and no one should make you do anything that makes you feel uncomfortable or embarrassed. If someone asks to see or tries to touch you under your underwear, say "NO" and tell someone you trust.
No means No
You have the right to say "no" to anything that makes you uncomfortable, even if it’s a family member or someone you love. You are in control of your body, and your feelings matter most.
Talk about secrets that upset you
There are good secrets, like surprise parties, and bad secrets that make you sad, worried, or scared. If someone tells you to keep a bad secret, you should talk to a safe adult you trust.
Speak up, someone can help
Talking to someone is important if you ever feel sad, anxious, or frightened. Whether it's a parent, teacher, or another trusted adult, someone will listen and help you.
Courtesy of Parenta.com
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