When to Say No

Introduction

In a world of abounding sin, parents are continually being confronted with stories of children who are exploited by peo-ple who often have deep inner struggles hidden by a friendly but subtle attitude.

This book is to help parents with young children to deal with the pressures they face of protecting their children from abu-sive situations.

It is the author’s intent for parents to read and explain in a non-sensual way to their children, to be aware of dangers they should avoid.

May God’s protecting hand be over us as we guide our fami-lies.

-Elam Ray Martin

When you’re a child, lots of people tell you what to do.

Dad says, “Brush your teeth, it’s bedtime.”

You say, “Okay Dad,” and get your toothbrush.

Mom says, “Wash your hands for dinner.”

You say, “Yes Mom.”

Big brother says, “Please run upstairs and get my baseball glove.”

You say, “Oh alright,” even if you don’t feel like it.

But sometimes it’s alright to say no to grownups, especially when your parents aren’t with you.

If a stranger wants to give you a ride say, “No thanks”. Run home and tell your dad.

If a stranger offers to give you a present, don’t take it unless a grownup you trust is with you.

If you are alone, politely say, “No thank-you” and very quickly walk away.

Grownups know that children should not trust strangers.

If your neighbor says, “Come to the barn. I want to show you our puppies.”

Tell him, “I’ll have to ask Dad or Mom first.”

What if you are sitting in the dentist’s waiting room and someone touches you?

It might be a safe touch like a polite handshake. Or perhaps an older lady gives you a friendly pat on your arm.

But if it is a scary touch that does not feel right you should say “Stop it!” very loudly.

Tell the receptionist about it, then sit somewhere that she can see you. And be sure to tell your Mom or Dad about it.

If a stranger asks to take your picture say, “I’ll have to ask my parents,” then quickly walk away.

It is okay to say no when someone grabs or tickles you, even if it’s meant for fun.

It is okay to say no, even to someone you love.

You should say no if anyone tries to touch the private parts of your body.

Your private parts are the places that are covered by a bathing suit.

What if your uncle or daddy’s friend talks to you about touching or kissing?

Walk away and tell dad and mom what happened.

What about secrets?

Some secrets are nice, such as birthday surprises. But sometimes secrets are unsafe.

If a secret is about touching, you should tell your parents.

Sometimes people say they will hurt you if you tell their secret. Or you might be scared that people won’t like you if you tell.

Anytime you feel scared or worried or uncomfortable about a secret, tell a grownup about it.

Sometimes a doctor or a nurse may need to uncover or touch your private parts, and little children need help with bathing or going to the bathroom.

Sometimes people need to let other people help them. Your parents can help you decide who you can trust. Or you can discuss it with the person who is reading this book with you.

Ask questions about safe touches and unsafe touches.

Some touches are safe and help you feel loved. Sometimes you feel shy about touches even if it’s a safe touch, such as a hug from Mom’s friend.

Sometimes grownups ask if they may hold you. If you need time to decide, that’s okay. You can stop and think about it. It is okay to say no, even if you said yes the last time.

Any time you feel scared or uncomfortable, tell someone!

Any time you feel confused or embarrassed, talk it over with your parents or another grownup you trust.

Talking about it will help you feel better. And when you tell someone, they can help keep you safe.

God loves you and He does not want people to touch you in an unsafe way.

Usually God wants children to obey grownups, but sometimes grownups disobey God and ask children to do things that are wrong.

God feels sad when someone touches you in a way that is wrong or unsafe. You do not have to let anyone do that to you. It is okay to say “NO!”

And no matter what happens, remember that God loves you!

By: Martha Ann Shirk

Published by: Weaverland Publications

298 Wheat Ridge, Ephrata, Pennsylvania 17522 | 717-351-0218