Mom has a brilliant way of teaching her toddler about 'good touch vs bad touch' in simple words

Talking to toddlers about body safety can feel uncomfortable for many parents. But one mom has shown that it doesn’t have to be complicated. With a calm tone and simple words, she’s helping break down a topic that often gets avoided by parents. And the internet is listening. The video, posted by Dallas-based mom @khani.trendy, who goes by 'Mrs Mama' on TikTok, has now crossed 5.5 million views. In it, she sits down with her young daughter, Tootie, for a short and honest chat about good touch and bad touch.

Using everyday examples, the mother explains what kinds of touch are okay. A high five? That’s a good touch. A hug from someone she trusts? Also good. But when it comes to touches involving private parts or kisses on the mouth, the mom is clear and explains calmly,  "That’s a bad touch". Throughout the video, Tootie joins in, giving her own answers. At one point, Tootie asks whether Grandma can kiss her on the mouth, and Mrs. Mama denies it, saying, “Kisses go on cheeks.”

The video resonated with viewers, flooding the comments section to praise the approach. Many users said they wished they had been taught the same way growing up. Some stressed how vital it is to teach children that they can say no to any touch that makes them uncomfortable, no matter who it comes from. One user, who goes by the handle @the6figuredigitalbackup, summing up an important point, said,  “If she is uncomfortable with it, it’s all bad touch… no matter who it is.” Another commenter, @user201101704, defended the mom’s decision to post the video, writing, “Guys... this is her child, she’s teaching her about where people should and shouldn’t touch her. Maybe it isn’t necessary to post, but it’s educational.

Grow up.”Similarly, @badgalniqniq appreciated the mom’s broader approach, stating, “I’m so glad you’re teaching her about the hair as well! Such a wonderful mother!” Her comment was similar to many others who felt that lessons on consent should include everyday things like unwanted hair-touching, which children, especially girls, often experience. Another user, @𝓖𝓵𝓪𝓼𝓼𝓮𝓼𝓰𝓲𝓻𝓵𝔂ꨄஐ, expressing said,  “It sucks you gotta teach kids on good touches and bad touches. People shouldn’t want to touch kids.” Adding another perspective, @Khoko Chanel, a social worker, thanked the mom for addressing the topic so openly: “As a social worker, thank you! Also, incorporating actual names for body parts is helpful too, instead of nicknames like ‘pocketbook,’ etc.” 

Several schools have also started including this into their curricula, and several parents are becoming more aware of it. There are several guides and blogs for parents about teaching their offspring how to differentiate between the two. Edu Plus Now states, "As parents and caregivers, one of the most critical lessons we can teach our children is understanding the difference between good touch and bad touch. This awareness is essential to protect them from uncomfortable or harmful situations while empowering them to express their feelings and communicate openly. Educating children early about body safety helps them feel confident in recognizing unsafe scenarios and gives them the tools to react appropriately."