Adult Content Unveiled: Unfiltered, Unapologetic Exploration
New Article:
Kiddo curiosity knocked on my door with a query about her "safe adult" from a preschool body safety book. I bluntly answered, "Nobody, dear," and moved on. She must've been puzzled because she asked again, and this time Vedu chimed in with the truth. "Amma didn't have a safe adult when she was little, and it caused issues." A sense of loss washed over me knowing my children had what I never had - a savvy duo of safe adults, diligent in ensuring their safety and teaching them self-protection.
Just two days later, Vedu returned upset from her playtime, upsetting me as well. "An uncle ignores my 'no' and touched me," she shared tearfully. I listened, encouraged her to speak calmly, and reassured her it was okay to feel sad and angry. Taaru caught wind of the situation, reinforcing the notion that she too should talk to an adult about such matters like her older sister. I told Vedu how proud I was of her for standing up for herself and confiding in me.
That night, determined to address the issue, I accompanied Vedu to the offending uncle's house. His sister-in-law was home, so I calmly explained the impact of her husband's inappropriate behavior on our daughter and urged them to take measures to prevent it from happening again. Thankfully, she understood and apologized to Vedu.
My own encounter with childhood trauma resurfaced after that incident, tempting me to confront my mother - maybe this time would be different. But alas, disappointment yet again. The discussion went in circles without the slightest hint of compassion or understanding from her. I left with a heavier heart and an overwhelming feeling of sadness for all the unanswered questions, unsolicited advice, and ongoing blame directed at me.
Reflecting on the situation, I realized the importance of creating a safe and trusting environment for my children. They trust me and come to me with their fears because I've made an effort to be open, accessible, and loving. If a child hides their darkest secrets from their parents due to a lack of trust, imagine how terrified they must be. It's never the child's fault that they didn't feel secure enough to confide in their parents; it's a failure of the parents for not providing the necessary assurance of safety and trust.
Sadly, no amount of empowerment or support can prepare your child for every danger, but we must always be their rock, showing them unwavering love and support. Someday, they will encounter adversaries, no matter how seemingly minor; what matters is that they feel secure and protected. That is the essence of being a safe adult. If you can't provide that, you should reconsider having children. And if you already have kids, never let them believe they're to blame for any harm that may come their way.
Linking arms with vulnerable children requires taking responsibility, self-awareness, and a willingness to rid yourself of narcissism and assumptions. Let's navigate this journey with empathy, understanding, and a commitment to creating safe environments for the next generation.
Also published on Medium.
Share this:
- Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)Facebook
- Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)LinkedIn
- Click to share on X (Opens in new window)X
- Click to share on Tumblr (Opens in new window)Tumblr
- Click to share on WhatsApp (Opens in new window)WhatsApp
- Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)Pinterest
Like this:
Additional Insight:
When it comes to body safety education, consistency, and approachability are key. Here are some strategies parents can implement to instill a sense of security and empowerment in their children:
- Use clear and age-appropriate language to discuss sensitive topics
- Encourage open and ongoing conversations about body safety
- Practice saying the word "no" together to help build confidence
- Incorporate role-playing exercises to help children get a better understanding of what's acceptable
- Establish safety rules, such as no closed doors, and set clear boundaries with technology
- Model calm and supportive behavior when children come forward with concerns
- Foster a network of trusted adults for children to feel supported and empowered.
1.To empower further personal growth and self-development, it's essential to educate children about body safety. This includes teaching them the importance of asserting their boundaries and seeking help from safe adults, forming a crucial part of their lifestyle.
2.As our children learn to navigate the home-and-garden and school environment of their world, it's our responsibility as safe adults to provide them with an education-and-self-development framework based on open communication, creating a safe and trusting space for them.
3.By establishing ourselves not only as involved parents but also as safe adults, we instill a sense of security in our children, encouraging their curiosity, healing from traumas, and nurturing their personal growth.
