Secrets can be fun and sometimes even magical, like when planning a surprise birthday party or hiding a special gift. These types of secrets make us feel happy and excited. However, there are other secrets that do not feel good at all. These are called unsafe secrets and can make you feel sad, scared, or even guilty.

Children need to know that they are not alone and that there are safe people they can turn to when they feel scared or uncomfortable. A safe person is someone who makes you feel protected and listened to. This could be a parent, grandparent, sibling, teacher, or even a neighbor. Safe people are those who respect your feelings and boundaries and are there to help you when you need it. Teaching children to recognize who their safe people are is a crucial step in ensuring their safety and well-being.

It is important for parents and caregivers to recognize the signs of inappropriate behavior and know how to respond effectively. Inappropriate behavior can take many forms, including unwanted touching, showing inappropriate material, or coercing a child into uncomfortable activities. These actions can make a child feel scared, confused, or ashamed. Parents must be vigilant and aware of the signs that something might be wrong.