“Stop” or Walk Away
Here's What To Do
Help your child learn about creating safe boundaries for themselves, and how to respond to unwanted touches, such as hugs, from their friends or adults.
Explain that it’s OK if they don’t want someone to touch them or give them a hug.
Talk together about simple things they can do, such as saying “stop” or “no thanks,” holding up their hand or walking away if they can’t or don’t want to speak.
Put PEER Into Action
Pause:
- Take a few deep belly breaths together to help your child notice how their body feels when they’re calm.
Engage:
- “You can decide if people like friends or grown ups can touch you, like to hug you or touch your shoulder to get your attention.”
- “If you don’t want them to, you can say something like “stop” or hold up your hand.”
Encourage:
- With your family, model how each family member can respond to unwanted touch from others.
- Highlight that the other person can respect their choice without getting upset when they hear “stop.”
Reflect:
- “What could you say or do if you don’t want someone to touch you?”
Not quite ready?
Model and suggest very simple responses using gestures your child already uses, such as walking away, holding up a hand or crossing their arms in front of them.
Ready for more?
Your child can also suggest ways they’d prefer to greet or respond to someone, such as waving, or giving a high five.
As your child masters this skill...
They will be able to respond appropriately to express dislike of unwanted touch from others.