Kayla Woody, CPN House of Hope Prevention Specialist
Relationships are one of the most important aspects of our lives. The quality of these relationships impacts our physical and emotional health. In order to thrive as individuals, we need healthy relationships.
However, like many things in life, we need to be taught how to successfully create healthy relationships. It’s a parent’s job to ensure that children understand how to establish healthy boundaries and spot abusive behaviors. We cannot leave this to chance.
The rates of intimate partner violence in our communities are out of control. Without education on what violence looks like in any relationship, many children are likely to fall into abusive relationships as they develop.
To help children create healthy habits in relationships, we must begin teaching them at an early age. It’s never too soon to educate someone about how to create healthy connections.
0-5 Year Olds
At this stage, it’s important that children learn about emotions and that parents help them identify words to describe their feelings and how to effectively express those feelings safely. Avoid labelling a child as being good or bad, but rather identify their behavior as good or bad.
Helpful Videos to Watch with Your Child on YouTube
Inside Out: Guessing the feelings
Sesame Street: Common and Colbie Caillat – “Belly Breathe” with Elmo
Helpful Books to Read with Your Child
“When I Feel Frustrated” by Michael Gordon
“The Way I Feel” by Janan Cain
6-8 Year Olds
At this stage, it’s important to teach children about boundaries. You can talk to them about their right to stay safe, strong and free: safe from harm by others, strong in their mind and body, and having free choices over their actions.
Helpful Videos to Watch with Your Child on YouTube
The Boundaries Song – “That’s a Boundary.”
How to Feel Feelings
Helpful Books to Read with Your Child
“My Body! What I Say Goes!” by Jayneen Sanders
“Consent (for Kids!): Boundaries, Respect, and Being in Charge of You” by Rachel Brian
9-11 Year Olds
This is a stage where children begin to develop stronger peer relationships. They rely on their peers as a source of information and examples of relationships. Have open conversations about what it means to be a good friend and help your child identify unhealthy behaviors in friendships.
Helpful Videos to Watch with Your Child on YouTube
10 Signs of a Healthy Relationship
Healthy vs Unhealthy Relationships
Helpful Books to Read with Your Child
“Being Me: A Kid’s Guide to Boosting Confidence” by Wendy Moss
12-18 Year Olds
Kids at this stage are learning to become more independent and less reliant on parents. They begin to understand different points of view and the complexities of life. The interest in dating and sexuality increases substantially. Parents must have open and healthy communication with kids at this stage and provide a variety of support resources.
Helpful Videos for Your Child on YouTube
#ThatsNotLove campaign | Because I Love You Healthy vs Unhealth Relationships
One Love – Couplets
Tea is Consent (Clean)
Helpful Books for Your Child
“Can We Talk About Consent?” by Justin Hancock
If you or someone you know is experiencing stalking, intimate partner violence, and/or sexual assault and would like more information, please contact House of Hope at 405-275-3176 or visit us online at facebook.com/cpnhouseofhope.