Make it a habit in your home culture to opt for privacy and surprises over secrets, and when secrets happen, be sure they know if it is a safe or unsafe one. Remind them of who the trusted adults are in their life, that they can share information with, if ever they are asked to keep a secret by anyone. Let them know that if they ever tell someone about unsafe secrets or touch, and that person does not believe them, that they should keep telling other trusted adults until someone believes them. Starting the talks early to make clear these differences can prepare a child for informed choices about the types of communication to have with others and who they can talk to when something feels unsafe or hurtful.
For more information or support around keeping children safer from sexual abuse or unwanted touch, visit Stop It Now!, RAINN or contact your local authorities if your child reports abuse.