6 Illuminating Books to Teach Children About Consent

Miles should be having fun at his birthday party, but how can he when everyone keeps grabbing him? He has had enough of the pinching and tickling and too tight hugs, so he declares himself the boss of his body.

Appropriate For Ages: 8-12

Click to Buy: Miles Is the Boss of His Body ($12)

Knight Sir Alfred is too young to stay home alone when his mother works, so Lord Henry watches over him. Although their relationship starts off well, Lord Henry starts touching Alfred inappropriately, and Alfred is not sure if he should tell anyone.

Appropriate For Ages: 3-11

Click to Buy: Some Secrets Should Never Be Kept ($10)

This book combines Biblical scripture and Christian teachings to explain consent to children. It discusses bodies, the term "private parts," and the difference between appropriate and inappropriate touching. It also assures children that they can say "no, thank you" to anyone who wants to touch them, even if it's someone they love.

Appropriate For Ages: 2-8

Click to Buy: God Made All of Me: A Book to Help Children Protect Their Bodies ($13, originally $16)

This book covers gender, sexuality, relationships, consent, and anatomy in a way that includes all sorts of body types and identities, so that children can see themselves in the book. This book is designed to spark conversations about relationship values, provide children with the correct terms for their anatomy, and get readers thinking about their personal identities.

Appropriate For Ages: 7-10

Click to Buy: Sex Is a Funny Word ($16, originally $24)

In this book, primary school teacher Jayneen Sanders explains the physical manifestations of feelings and emotions. This helps children recognize the signs when they're feeling unsafe and helps them put the feeling into words. She then discusses why everyone should know safe people who will listen whenever anyone feels unsafe.

Appropriate For Ages: 3-10

Click to Buy: My Body! What I Say Goes! ($10)