Today marks the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM)—a global call to action against a practice that violates the rights and dignity of millions of girls and women. While legislation and policy reforms are crucial, true change begins at home. Conversations about body autonomy—the fundamental right to control what happens to one’s body—play a critical role in safeguarding children from harmful practices like FGM.

Experts and parents agree that teaching children about consent, personal boundaries, and self-worth equips them with the confidence to resist coercion and advocate for their rights.

Know what body autonomy is

Body autonomy refers to an individual’s right to make decisions about their body without external influence or coercion. Instilling this principle in children from an early age helps them understand that they have ownership over their bodies and the authority to establish boundaries. This foundational knowledge builds self-confidence and serves as a protective measure against various forms of abuse.

There are practical ways to teach children about their bodies, as parents, you should not shy away from it:

Use anatomically correct terminology

Teaching children the correct names for their body parts fosters a sense of familiarity and confidence in discussing their anatomy. It also provides them with the language needed to articulate concerns or report inappropriate behaviour. Avoid euphemisms like “peepee” or “bumbum”—instead, use medically accurate terms. This clarity can be crucial in situations where a child needs to communicate discomfort or report an incident.

Teach them to say “No”

Encourage children to express discomfort and assert their boundaries. Help them understand that it is okay to refuse physical contact, even from trusted individuals, if it makes them uncomfortable. This includes well-meaning family members who may attempt to force hugs, kisses, or other physical gestures. Empowering children to set boundaries instills a strong sense of personal agency.

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Define private areas

Clearly explain which parts of their body are private and emphasize that no one should touch or see these areas without consent. Reinforce that inappropriate contact is a violation of privacy and that they should report any such experiences immediately. Parents must also be vigilant, ensuring that children truly understand these concepts and feel comfortable discussing them.

Model respectful boundaries

Children learn by observing their caregivers. Respecting their personal space and decisions reinforces the idea that they should expect the same treatment from others. Simple acts, such as knocking before entering their room or asking for permission before helping them change clothes, demonstrate healthy boundary-setting.

Additionally, children should be taught why it is inappropriate to invade the privacy of others. For example, they must understand why they should not open the bathroom door while a parent is inside. These lessons create a mutual respect for boundaries within the household.

Parents speak

Many parents have found practical ways to integrate these lessons into daily life. Some use storybooks about bodily autonomy as conversation starters, while others role-play scenarios to help children practice asserting their boundaries.

Mrs. Fatimah Olowu, a Service Quality Expert and mother of two, believes that teaching body autonomy from a young age fosters self-esteem and self-protection.
“I teach my kids the right body terminologies, and I don’t shy away from it. There’s no such thing as ‘peepee’ when they can learn and use the right terms,” she said.
Similarly, Mr. Monday Mamodu emphasized the importance of normalizing these discussions.

“Body autonomy is a crucial issue, and we need to handle it as such. I teach my kids about their body parts, even though I sometimes feel shy saying it. When I’m not around, I make sure my wife continues these lessons.”

By fostering conversations about body autonomy, parents contribute to a broader cultural shift—one that promotes respect for personal boundaries, consent, and self-advocacy. This approach not only protects children from harmful practices like FGM but also instills lifelong values that empower them in all aspects of life.

As the world observes the International Day of Zero Tolerance for FGM, these home-based interventions stand as crucial tools in eradicating harmful traditions and shaping a safer future for the next generation.