Sammy's Watch together
Sammy's Safe Circle Song · 1:41. Watch it together, then ask: who are the safe grown-ups you can tell?
Say this tonight
- Your body belongs to you. The parts your swimsuit covers are private.
- You can say no to any touch, even from family.
- We never keep secrets about bodies. You will never be in trouble for telling me.
The 4 rules
- Use the real names. Kids who know the right words can tell you clearly.
- The swimsuit rule. No one touches or asks to see the parts a swimsuit covers.
- No forced hugs. Your child can say no to a hug, even with family. A high-five is fine.
- No secrets about bodies. Surprises are okay because everyone finds out soon. Secrets are not.
When you can’t be there
You can’t watch every minute, especially if you work long hours or raise your kids alone. People who hurt kids look for children who are lonely or on their own. These steps help, and they cost nothing:
- Give your child 3 safe grown-ups they can always tell.
- Tell sitters, family, and neighbors your rules: no secrets, no closed doors.
- Ask about their day every night: “Did anything feel weird today?”
- Teach them: if someone gives you a gift and says don’t tell, tell me.
Read the book together
Sammy and the Safe Circle. Swipe to turn the page.
Want to know more?
Tap any question to open it.
Who is the real risk?
About 9 in 10 kids who are sexually abused know the person who hurt them. It is often someone the family trusts: a relative, a family friend, a coach, a babysitter, or an older kid. Watch how people act, not who they are.
5 warning signs in an adult
- Asks your child to keep secrets from you
- Gives gifts or treats for no clear reason
- Finds ways to be alone with your child
- Texts or messages your child privately
- Lets your child break your rules, or turns them against you
One sign alone may mean nothing. Several together mean pay close attention.
If your child tells you something
Stay calm. Say: “Thank you for telling me. I believe you.” Don't push for details. If a child is in danger, call 911. If not, call Childhelp at 1-800-422-4453 for help with next steps.
Family quiz: true or false?
- Most people who hurt kids are strangers. False.
- Knowing the real names helps kids tell. True.
- Kids have to hug relatives. False.
- A safe grown-up might ask you to keep a secret from your parents. False.
- You will never be in trouble for telling. True.
What age should I start?
You can start around age 3 with the real names and the swimsuit rule. Keep the talks short and repeat them as your child grows.
What is the swimsuit rule?
The parts a swimsuit covers are private. No one should touch them or ask to see them. A doctor checks them only when a parent is in the room.
Should I make my child hug relatives?
No. Let your child choose a hug, a high-five, or a wave. When adults respect a child's no, the child learns their body belongs to them.
More guides
Updated October 2026. Sources: The Center for Child Protection, Darkness to Light, Polly Klaas Foundation.