Supporting Body Autonomy During Child Abuse Prevention Month

April is Child Abuse Prevention and Awareness Month — and at Little Leaps, we believe dance can be a powerful tool in raising safe, confident children. More than steps and rhythm, dance helps kids understand body autonomy, personal boundaries, and self-expression from an early age.

Why Dance Supports Safety & Confidence

In our early childhood dance classes, children learn:

• Their body belongs to them

• They are in control of their movements

• It’s always okay to say “no” if something doesn’t feel right

These lessons are embedded in everything we do — from warm-ups to free dance time — and they help build strong emotional foundations.

Teaching Body Autonomy Through Dance

Dance empowers kids to make choices with their bodies. Our teachers model consent in simple, age-appropriate ways. Even things like offering a high-five come with an option to decline.

We regularly use affirming phrases such as:

"You are in charge of your body. If you ever feel uncomfortable, it’s okay to say no.”

This builds a child’s internal compass — helping them feel confident, safe, and respected not just in dance class, but everywhere.

How Parents Can Talk About Safe vs. Unsafe Touch

You don’t need big, heavy talks to teach body safety — just small, consistent conversations.

Safe touch:

“A high-five after dance class is a safe touch! It’s fun, quick, and makes you feel good.”

Unsafe touch:

“If someone touches you in a way that feels yucky or uncomfortable — even if they say to keep it a secret — you can say ‘NO,’ move away, and tell a grown-up you trust.”

Normalize talking about touch the way you’d talk about a scratchy tag or tight shoes. Keep the door open so kids know it’s safe to share.

Signs That May Signal a Child Needs Support

Some children may not verbalize discomfort — but their behavior might change. Here are signs to watch for:

• Sudden fear of dance or other favorite activities

• Avoidance of touch or physical closeness

• Mood swings or changes in behavior

• Unexplained complaints of pain or fear

• Talking about secrets or topics beyond their age

If something feels off, it’s okay to check in gently.

Build Trust Through Daily Check-Ins

Regular conversations help kids feel emotionally safe. Try asking:

• “What was your favorite part of dance today?”

• “Did anything feel weird or not-so-good?”

• “Is there anything you want to tell me about your day?”

Remind them often:

“You can tell me anything. I will always listen, and you won’t get in trouble for telling the truth.”

Resources for Families

Helplines:

• Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-422-4453

• National Sexual Assault Hotline (RAINN): 1-800-656-4673

Books:

• Your Body Belongs to You by Cornelia Maude Spelman

• I Said No! by Kimberly King

• Miles is the Boss of His Body by Samantha Kurtzman-Counter & Abbie Schiller

Websites:

• childhelphotline.org

• rainn.org

• kidsmartz.org

Join our #LeapForSafety challenge on social media this month!

We’re sharing fun, easy ways to talk about body autonomy and safety every day through movement and dance.