Child sexual abuse is a serious issue that is unfortunately prevalent, as highlighted by various media reports. The Centers for Disease Control indicates that by the age of 18, 1 in 4 girls and 1 in 6 boys will experience sexual abuse. Disturbingly, 85% of these victims are familiar with their abusers. It’s crucial to engage in open conversations with your child about this topic. Recently, my husband and I had a heartfelt discussion with our daughter regarding what constitutes appropriate and inappropriate touching. I understand that this can be a challenging conversation for many parents. To help navigate this sensitive subject, former Australian police officer Kate Power and her husband Rod Power have authored a helpful book for children titled “My Underpants RULE.”
The authors have crafted this book in a way that young children can easily grasp, using playful rhymes to engage their interest and hold their attention. The main focus is on teaching kids the important “golden underpants rule”: “What’s under my pants belongs only to me.”
Targeted at children aged 4-8, this book can also serve as a valuable resource for younger kids, around ages 2 and 3. The concept of the underpants rule is reiterated and clarified throughout the vibrant, illustrated pages, empowering young readers. Additionally, the book presents various scenarios for children to think about and respond to. It further explains the difference between appropriate and inappropriate touching and offers guidance on how to handle challenging situations.
While reading this book alone won’t completely prevent child sexual abuse, it serves as a wonderful tool for parents to help educate their children about the Underpants Rule. It can spark important conversations about what is considered appropriate versus inappropriate touching.
I would defiantly recommend it to all parents to use a starting point in talking to their children. I also want to add that it is important to tell your children that their body belongs to them and it is OK to say no to any form of touch that makes them feel uncomfortable- that includes giving relatives a kiss or hug. A CNN article entitled I Don’t Own My Child’s Body explores this topic further.
If you would like to pick up your own copy of “My Underpants RULE!” it can be ordered via Amazon.com & Amazon.ca. For more information, visit the My Underpants RULE! website at www.myunderpantsrule.com
Watch Rod and Kate Power talk about their new book.
Thanks for the introduction to this book,I have to say it’s one we need in our library!