Cozy Moments and Important Lessons: A Review of Where Hands Go
As a mom of three rambunctious little ones, bedtime can often feel like a circus. Just last week, we had a real showdown over whether to read another round of dinosaur adventures or dive into the educational realm. To my surprise, my kids’ curiosity evolved when I pulled out a book I’d been eager to share: Where Hands Go: An Introduction to Safe and Unsafe Touch by Krystaelynne Sanders Diggs.
From the moment we settled in—the coziness of the blankets, the soft glow of the nightlight—this book opened doors to discussions I had been wanting to have with my kids but hadn’t quite known how to start. Written as a gentle resource for parents, teachers, and guardians, it introduces young children to the important concepts of body autonomy and safe touch through engaging language and beautiful illustrations.
As we flipped through the pages, my four-year-old, who usually only wants to discuss superheroes, began pointing out the images and saying, “Look, Mommy! They’re holding hands!” My heart melted a bit while I realized how this book was hooking even the most reluctant of readers. The illustrations are inviting and bright, making it easy for my kids to engage and participate.
One of the highlights was a line that resonated with them: “You have the power to say no.” As I read that aloud, my six-year-old looked up at me with wide eyes and said, "I can say no, right? Even to a grown-up?" It felt like such a pivotal moment, as if we were planting seeds of confidence and empowerment in our little ones. We had an impromptu conversation about how it’s okay to stand up for their bodies, no matter who it is.
Another sweet moment was when my youngest, just shy of three, enthusiastically pointed at the pages showing safe touches, jumping up and down and shouting, “Yay! High-fives!” Kids have such an innate understanding of love and boundaries; it was a joy to see this concept resonate with them. As a bonus, the book’s format allows for interaction, prompting kids to engage in discussion rather than just passively listening.
Now, I won’t pretend that this book is without its critiques. Some might find it short, and it touches only lightly on some areas that could benefit from deeper exploration. A few other parents have shared feedback that it doesn’t lay out enough examples of unsafe touch, which is definitely something to consider. However, I appreciate that it opens the door for further conversation, making it a wonderful starting point for parents navigating these sensitive topics.
I wholeheartedly recommend Where Hands Go for kids aged 2-6, especially for parents who want an accessible way to introduce concepts of safety and consent. This isn’t just a one-time read; it has become a part of our regular bedtime rotation, ensuring that these vital lessons stick with my children as they grow.
Ultimately, I found it not just a book, but a heartfelt tool for bridging conversations that can sometimes feel daunting. It touched my heart as a mom and equipped my children with knowledge that can empower them for life. So next time you’re faced with the choice on what to read at bedtime, consider picking up this gem—it just may spark the right discussions in your home, too! 🥰📚
