Consent (for Kids!)

Consent (for Kids!)

book

2020, Children's Books, Growing Up & Facts of Life

WISE
93%

WISE Score

4.8

Amazon

The consent conversation you've been putting off, now in book form with funny illustrations and zero awkwardness.

Amazon4.8
Common Sense Media

Where to Read

Amazon
Amazon
Barnes & Noble
Barnes & Noble
Libby
Libby

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Screenwise Verdict

This is one of those books every family should own, full stop. Rachel Brian takes a topic that makes many parents squirm and makes it accessible, funny, and empowering for kids.

The genius is in the approach: it's not fear-based or preachy. It's about being in charge of your own body, setting boundaries, and respecting others. The 'ruler of your own country' analogy is perfect for helping kids understand bodily autonomy without getting into complicated territory.

It's short enough to read in one sitting but meaty enough to return to as kids grow. The illustrations are bright and engaging, and the scenarios are practical—this isn't theoretical, it's stuff kids encounter every day (hugs from relatives, sharing space with friends, etc.).

The only 'downside' is that it's educational rather than entertaining, so don't expect kids to curl up with it for fun. But as a teaching tool and conversation starter? It's genuinely excellent and fills a gap most parents don't know how to fill on their own.

Age Fit

Best for ages 5-12. Young kids (5-7) benefit from reading it with a parent to discuss the concepts together. Older elementary kids (8-12) can read independently and still get the message without it feeling babyish. The illustrations and humor keep it accessible across the age range.

WISE Breakdown
Wholesome
95

A book fundamentally about respect, boundaries, and bodily autonomy—core wholesome values. Uses humor and age-appropriate language to tackle a sensitive topic without being preachy or scary. Models kindness, self-respect, and how to treat others. The tone is empowering rather than fear-based.

Imaginative
72

While not a narrative-driven or fantasy book, it uses creative analogies (like being 'ruler of your own country') and bright, energetic illustrations to make an abstract concept concrete. The format encourages kids to reflect on their own behavior and practice consent scenarios, which invites imaginative application to real life. It's clever and playful in its approach, though it's ultimately an educational tool rather than a creative story.

Safe
98

Exceptionally safe. This is exactly the kind of book that helps kids BE safer by teaching them about boundaries and bodily autonomy. No concerning content, no mature themes beyond age-appropriate discussion of consent. The author is known for the viral 'Tea Consent' video and has expertise in education. Common Sense Media describes it as 'outstandingly clear' with humor. The only reason it's not 100 is that some very conservative families might be uncomfortable with bodily autonomy discussions, but that's their issue, not the book's.

Enriching
96

This is a genuinely important book that teaches life skills every human needs. Consent, boundaries, bodily autonomy, and respect are foundational concepts for healthy relationships and self-advocacy. Multiple starred reviews from Kirkus and Booklist. Kirkus calls it 'a book to own and refer to, often.' Booklist says it 'should be required reading for all consenting, corporeal human beings.' It's both educational and empowering, giving kids practical tools they'll use their entire lives.

Parent Info
✓

Why It Might Be Great

  • Teaches consent, boundaries, and bodily autonomy in a way that's empowering rather than scary—kids learn they're in charge of their own bodies
  • Smart analogies (you're the ruler of your own country!) make abstract concepts concrete for young minds
  • From the creator of the viral 'Tea Consent' video that's been viewed 150+ million times—she knows how to explain this stuff
  • Works across ages: read it to young kids for discussion, let tweens read it themselves
  • Starred reviews from Kirkus and Booklist, plus it's a conversation starter that actually starts conversations
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What to Watch For

  • This is a teaching tool, not a story—it's direct and educational, which some kids might find less engaging than a narrative
  • You'll need to be ready for follow-up questions about bodies, boundaries, and what to do if someone makes them uncomfortable
  • Some very conservative families might be uncomfortable with bodily autonomy discussions, but that's kind of the point

Conversation Starters

  • "What does it mean to be 'ruler of your own country'? What are some rules you have for your body?"
  • "Can you think of a time when someone didn't respect your boundaries? What did you do or wish you had done?"
  • "How can you tell if someone is giving a 'happy yes' versus a 'reluctant yes'?"
  • "What would you do if a friend or family member made you feel uncomfortable about touching or hugging?"
  • "Why is it important to ask before hugging someone, even if they're family?"

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