Talking with young children about body safety and consent can sometimes feel daunting for educators and caregivers. The language feels sensitive, the topics can seem overwhelming, and many adults worry about “getting it wrong.” Yet giving children the knowledge and words to recognise unsafe behaviour and to speak up is one of the most powerful ways we can protect them.
This is where the international bestselling picture book “Only For Me” has become such a valued resource.
- Title: “Only For Me“
- Written:Michelle Derrig
- Illustrated by:Nicole Mackenzie
- Age Group: 3 to 8 years
- Links to EYLF
- Principles: Secure, respectful and reciprocal relationships
- Practices: Responsiveness to children
- Outcomes: Children have a strong sense of wellbeing
Body Safety
Written for children aged three to eight, Only For Me uses clever rhyme and gentle, engaging illustrations to capture children’s attention and imagination. The story introduces critical concepts in an age-appropriate way, teaching children what safe and unsafe touch looks like, the importance of saying “no,” how to seek help from trusted adults and the foundations of personal boundaries. Far from overwhelming, the book normalises protective behaviours through language and visuals children can understand. In these formative early years, such messages are not only helpful, they are essential.
Educators, child-protection professionals, and families consistently praise Only For Me for its sensitivity and effectiveness. Many describe it as “the best book on body safety and abuse prevention for young children” and stress that it “needs to be in every home and school.” The balance of playful rhyme with clear, straightforward safety messages makes it both engaging for children and reassuring for adults. Nothing critical is left unsaid, yet everything is delivered with warmth and care.
For educators, this book provides more than just another story. It is a practical tool that supports the creation of child-safe environments, while also embedding key learnings of consent and body safety into everyday practice. Here are a few ways to incorporate Only For Me into your service:
- Open conversations about trusted adults
Use the story to help children identify who the trusted adults in their lives might be. This can extend into group discussions, drawings, or creating visual displays of “people we can go to for help.”
- Weave body safety messages into daily routines
Everyday experiences such as asking before giving a hug or respecting when someone says “stop” during play. These can be linked back to the story and respecting boundaries. These natural moments are opportunities to reinforce what consent looks and sounds like in practice.
- Engage families in the conversation
Share the key messages of Only For Me with families and provide guidance on how they can continue the conversation at home. A short handout, booklist, or even an information session can help parents feel confident discussing these important topics. - Reflect as a team
Use the book as a springboard in staff meetings to consider how your service policies, procedures, and philosophy align with child safety principles. It can also prompt reflection on how consistently these practices are embedded across all rooms and routines.
Empowering Children
At its heart, Only For Me is more than a storybook.
It is a catalyst for meaningful conversations that empower children, strengthen protective environments and build strong partnerships with families. By weaving its messages into both program and practice, educators play a vital role in ensuring every child not only feels safe but knows what to do if they don’t.
