Welcome to Consent
#2 in Welcome to Your Body Series
What’s inside...
This book provides an accessible and comprehensive guide to consent, covering topics such as communication, boundaries, and sexual intimacy. It aims to help readers understand the importance of consent in all aspects of life, including romantic relationships, friendships, and sexual encounters. The author, Yumi Stynes, uses real-life examples and engaging illustrations to make the concept of consent relatable and easy to understand. The book also includes practical tips and strategies for communicating consent and respecting boundaries, making it a valuable resource for anyone looking to build healthier and more respectful relationships. Every person is the boss of their own body! This lively guide digs deep into all aspects of consent. Understanding consent is important for people with all kinds of bodies, in all kinds of circumstances—from getting a haircut or letting the doctor check your blood pressure to hugging a friend, picking up a child, or kissing someone. Consent isn’t always communicated with a clear 'Yes, you can!' or 'No, you can’t!' This guide breaks down myriad situations involving consent and bodily autonomy, including navigating new or changing feelings, recognizing power imbalances, staying safe in online spaces, and keeping relationships mutually comfortable. Through relatable illustrations, clear explanations, and real-life examples, readers will learn how to actively listen and observe, set boundaries, and speak up for themselves and others. Authors Yumi Stynes and Dr. Melissa Kang approach this crucial topic with passion, awareness, and empathy.
Discussion points
What does the word 'consent' mean to you?
Can you think of a time when you asked for permission or gave consent?
Why is it important to make sure everyone feels comfortable in a situation?
How do you think you should respond if someone doesn't respect your personal boundaries?
What are some ways you can show respect for other people's boundaries?
Tip: Role play these questions
Create a relaxed environment for the discussion, perhaps by discussing over a favorite snack or during a quiet time.
Use examples from the book to highlight moments where consent is given or asked for.
Praise your child for their insights and encourage them to express their feelings and thoughts.
Express your own thoughts and experiences with consent to model open communication.
Ensure to listen actively, showing interest and understanding of your child’s perspective.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding Consent
Explanation: The book clearly outlines what consent is and why it's important in simple terms that children can understand. It educates on how consent relates to physical touch, verbal interaction, and respect for others’ boundaries.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by learning to ask for permission before hugging or touching their peers and understanding how to say 'no' if they are uncomfortable with something.
Example Lesson: Respecting Personal Space and Boundaries
Explanation: The narrative helps illustrate situations where personal space is important and teaches children to observe those boundaries, whether during play or in conversation.
Real-World Application: This lesson assists children in real life by helping them interact appropriately with classmates and friends, ensuring mutual comfort in interactions.
Example Lesson: Effective Communication of Feelings
Explanation: The book encourages children to express their feelings about comfort and discomfort openly and honestly, and teaches that these feelings are valid and should be respected.
Real-World Application: By applying this lesson, children can confidently speak up about their feelings and preferences both at home and school, fostering a healthy environment for emotional development.
Example Lesson: Importance of Empathy
Explanation: Through its characters, the book portrays examples of how understanding other people's feelings and perspectives is crucial in respecting consent.
Real-World Application: Children can utilize empathy in everyday interactions by considering other people’s comfort levels and feelings before making decisions that impact them.