Joanna Goddard: ‘I tell my kids that they’re the boss of their bodies’

OPINION | Ending sexual harassment in children’s lives

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Adapted from a story by The Washington Post’s opinions staff.

One best idea: Sexual harassment takes place everywhere. This is one in a series of posts about how various industries can change to stop sexual harassment. What’s your one best idea? Share it here.

Joanna Goddard’s one best idea: Start teaching consent early

Goddard blogs at A Cup of Jo.

I always want to smother my children with kisses and hugs. But it’s so important to teach consent from a young age. I tell my kids that they’re the boss of their bodies — it’s a clear, age-appropriate phrase (every kid understands the concept of boss!) and it makes them feel empowered. If my son doesn’t want to kiss Grandma, I’ll say, “You’re the boss of your body, it’s up to you.” If they’re playing with a friend who doesn’t want a hug, I’ll tell them, “She’s the boss of her body, and you need to stop.” I hope that by understanding consent at a young age, children will find it second nature to respect others’ bodies and minds throughout their lives.

One best idea: Corporate America

Companies should disclose the number of sexual harassment claims settled — and the amounts paid

One best idea: Firefighting

The problem with loose conversation in the workplace

One best idea: Domestic work

The rules of the new economy are being written. Let’s ensure the future of work is safe for women.

One best idea: National security

Want a female secretary of defense? I can suggest half a dozen supremely qualified candidates.

One best idea: Congress

Rep. Jackie Speier: Pass the Me Too Congress Act

One best idea: Hospitals

About 90 percent of nurses are women. They can be easy targets of sexual harassment at work.

One best idea: Churches

Churches should address abuse with a consistent policy. Cultural transformation is needed, too.

One best idea: Wall Street

Wall Street has no female chief executives. That needs to change.

This story originally appeared in The Washington Post.