Inappropriate Touching: Why Parents Need to Teach Kids to Report It! by Abraham Alarcon

Recent news reports are filled with stories about powerful people in the movie, sports and business industries abusing their power. Coaches, executives and regular employees seem to have abused their position and broken a trust. These events are hurtful and wrong. They are even more hurtful and moving when they involve the abuse and violence against children.

As a former high school teacher and middle school principal, I saw lots of touching among preteens and teens. Most of it was natural play while some of it was all-out aggression. I see a lot of touching as an elementary vice principal, too. Positive touch, like hi-fives, fist bumps, pounds, hand shakes and hugs, are natural ways to greet, show affection and happiness.

Yet, inappropriate touching occurs when one person feels strange, different and uncomfortable. That touch crosses the line and prevents one from feeling safe and secure. Children who report inappropriate touch do it because they want it to stop and they know it’s wrong. When they do report, they make their home, school and community safer.

Teach children to report inappropriate touch and it will make our society safer and stronger.