What if my child is afraid of getting in trouble for reporting an adult?
It’s common for kids to worry about consequences, especially when the person involved is an adult. Students should not get in trouble for reporting unsafe or inappropriate behavior. Schools are expected to respond carefully and protect students from retaliation for speaking up.
Can consent be nonverbal?
Consent can sometimes be communicated without words, such as through clear and comfortable body language. However, it must still be obvious, enthusiastic, and freely given. If there is hesitation, confusion, discomfort, or pressure, consent is not present. When someone is unsure, the safest and most respectful choice is to pause and check in. When in […]
What protections do students have at school if something unsafe happens?
Students have the right to learn in a safe, respectful environment free from sexual harassment and sexual violence. Schools are legally required to respond to concerns, investigate reports, and take steps to stop harmful behavior. This includes protecting students from retaliation and providing appropriate support and accommodations during and after a report is made.
What does it mean to withdraw consent?
Withdrawing consent means deciding to stop doing something, even if you agreed to it earlier. You do not need a reason or explanation to change your mind. Consent is an ongoing choice and can be withdrawn at any time. Just like you can decide to stop an activity you no longer enjoy, you are always […]
What is Title IX, and why does it matter for my child?
Title IX is a federal law that protects students from sex-based discrimination, including sexual harassment and sexual violence, in schools and educational programs. Under Title IX, schools are required to respond to reports, offer support and accommodations to affected students, and take steps to stop harmful behavior. Families and students have the right to ask […]
What if my child felt pressured into saying yes or felt unsure instead of a clear yes or no?
Pressure and uncertainty cancel consent. Children and teens often go along with things to avoid conflict, embarrassment, or rejection. You can say, “If something feels confusing, stressful, or pressured, that’s your body telling you to pause or stop. Consent should feel clear and comfortable, not tense or forced.” This gives them language to trust their […]
Who should my child talk to at school if something unsafe happens?
Your child can talk to a trusted adult at school, like a teacher, school counselor, social worker, nurse, administrator, coach, or another staff member they trust. They can also talk to you, and you can help them decide the next steps. They don’t need perfect words; sharing what happened and how it felt is enough.
Can someone consent if they feel scared or threatened?
No. Consent requires the ability to make a free and voluntary choice. If someone feels scared or threatened, they may feel that saying no will lead to harm. In those situations, the choice is not truly free, and consent cannot exist. Fear, pressure, or threats remove a person’s ability to consent, and responsibility lies with […]
What’s the difference between teasing and being mean?
Teasing is usually mutual and stops when someone shows discomfort or asks for it to stop. It feels light and respectful to everyone involved. Being mean involves repeated behavior that hurts, embarrasses, pressures, or targets something personal, especially when someone’s discomfort is ignored. If the behavior continues after someone asks it to stop, escalates, or […]
What should I tell my child to do if their friends say things that make them uncomfortable?
Encourage your child to pay attention to discomfort and take it seriously. They can name how it felt, ask to change the subject, or take a break. Healthy friendships allow honesty and respect. If friends dismiss their feelings or keep doing it, that’s a sign to seek support from a trusted adult.