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Young children often get to enjoy more time around extended family and friends on Yom Tov. This may happen in close quarters and with less direct parental supervision. That's why it's a great time to share and review a few simple personal safety messages with our children.
As Dr. Shani Verschleiser, co-author of My Special Body, reminds us, "Research shows that 95% of abuse is preventable with education.”
Here are a few simple things you can remind your children:
• Your body is a gift from Hashem and deserves to be treated with respect and care.
• The parts of your body covered by your swimsuit are private.
• You are allowed to say “No.” If someone asks to see or touch your private parts, you can say no, move away if you can, and tell Mommy, Daddy, or another trusted adult.
• If something makes you feel uncomfortable, tell us. We want to listen and help.
And before Yom Tov, set clear guidelines such as having children play in common areas rather than behind closed doors.
These reminders give our children important tools to help keep them safe—while preserving the innocence and joy of childhood.
Looking for a gentle way to start the conversation?
Bracha Goetz has written three child-friendly books that teach about personal safety:
My Special Body: A First Book About Personal Safety - ages 2–5
A gentle first board book about personal safety and respecting our bodies.
Talking About Personal Privacy - ages 6+
A child-friendly introduction to personal privacy and appropriate boundaries.
Let's Stay Safe - ages 6+
A picture book about many normative safety guidelines, including personal safety.
Reading an age-appropriate picture book together is a natural and comfortable way to open the door to these important conversations.
May we all experience a beautiful, safe, and uplifting Yom Tov, surrounded by family and friends.
Chag Sameach from all of us at Growing IMPACT Publications!
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