Stop
When we play with our little ones, whether we’re tickling or hugging or kissing or tossing them around, please listen right away when they say, “Stop”. This tells them that we respect their boundaries and reinforces that their body is theirs and they get to decide what is done with it.
Consent is an exceptionally important concept for our children to embody; this practice on our part can help ensure it’s deeply understood before they grow into their tween/teen years and beyond.
Even if you’re having so much fun and they’re laughing while they say it. Stop. Even if you don’t think they really mean it - please stop. Even if they take a breath and then immediately want more, this is okay, please just check in - “Are you sure? I want to be sure it’s okay with you and your body.”
Bottom line, at home we want to show them what respect looks and feels like. This message can be delivered in so many ways, even through silly, tumbling, wrestling-type play. Just listen for that word, “Stop” and quickly respond.
