WARNING: This story includes content that may be distressing for some listeners.
In a culture where children often meet adults by hugging or touching feet, psychologist Gurpreet Ganda suggests that kids should be taught bodily autonomy to say no.
Dr Gurprit Ganda, Clinical Psychologist
"Parents should have the conversation with children and listen to them when they like or dislike a person," she said.
She said that parents should teach their children in an age-appropriate way.
Giving an instance, she said, parents can talk about "public and private" by giving an example of play.
Kids can be taught what a public act is, such as playing, and ensure it is done in a public place, such as parks, or in front of others and not in a private room. Likewise, a private act of going to the loo should not be done in public or in the company of others.Dr Gurprit Ganda, Clinical Psychologist
Statistics from the National Office for Child Safety suggest one in four Australians has experienced sexual harassment as a child.
Small acts and the right conversation, believe experts, can protect a child from sexual harassment.,
National Office for Child Safety, which runs a campaign called 'One Talk at a Time', also shared a toolkit on how to speak with children. To know more, listen to this podcast:
Call the dedicated advice line on 1800 791 241 (open 7 days a week, 8 am to 9 pm weekdays and 8 am to 5 pm weekends)
Support can be accessed by calling 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732); or the National Sexual Abuse and Redress Support Service on 1800 211 028
🔊 Find all our podcasts and stories that matter here at SBS Punjabi Podcast Collection.
💻 For news, information and interviews in Punjabi from across Australia and the homeland, you can tune in to SBS Punjabi live from Monday to Friday at 4pm on SBS South Asian on digital radio, on channel 305 on your television, via the SBS Audio app or stream from our website.
📲 Also, follow us on Facebook and Instagram.
