It's My Body by Lory Freeman (1984, Paperback)

I purchased this book as family reading/sharing for the younger children. "It's My Body" explains the simple difference between 'good' touch and 'bad' touch by using easy to explain terms for children. Ms. Freeman's simple language for younger children also allows the children to practice a phrase that ensures they can protect themselves.

The book is also easy reading for a first grader. It's fun reading to children younger than first grade. As a parent/guardian for children, the book does not make a mess of personal issues. For instance, a child may not want to hug another younger, messy, sticky (with candy) child. It's My Body allows a child to say NO in that instance. The idea is to give a child courage to say no and understand that their body is theirs.

Another point of the point is explored about touching other people. Someone may ask you to touch them in a place that you don't want to. Tell them, "No, I won't touch you there. I don't like it!" These simple practice phrases works wonders on a child that may have esteem issues or previous abuse issues.

Overall, Ms. Freeman takes a major issue (child sexual abuse) and simplifies it for the parent/guardian. The book doesn't talk about all the ways touch could be inappropriate - that is up to the parent - but it opens the door for the family to discuss those situations. The book does not discuss harmful touch (sexual abuse) in any way. However, the child's parents/guardians should develop a conversation concerning more harmful types of touch.

It's also fun to have the children practice saying the famous lines (It's My Body) and encouraging self-confidence so they can try to protect themselves.