New activity booklet supports everyday conversations to keep children safe

Before continuing to read this piece, readers should be aware that the content of this article may prove distressing, and should consider their own circumstances before continuing to engage. A list of support services has been provided at the conclusion of the article.

A new interactive resource developed as part of the ‘One Talk at a Time’ campaign is helping families, educators and carers start important conversations with children and young people about body safety and child sexual abuse prevention.

Launched by the National Office for Child Safety, the activity booklet is designed to support adults in having ongoing, age-appropriate discussions about consent, boundaries, respect, and protective behaviours. These conversations can help prevent child sexual abuse and reinforce that children have the right to feel safe, be heard and be protected from harm.

Talking about child sexual abuse can feel confronting, but the booklet provides guidance, conversation prompts, and everyday activities that create natural opportunities to talk about safety. These include colouring, baking, gardening, and imaginative play activities already familiar and enjoyable to many children.

By embedding these conversations in ordinary moments, the booklet helps to normalise safety discussions, making children more likely to understand their rights, recognise inappropriate behaviour, and feel comfortable raising questions or concerns.

Illustrated by Nea Valdivia, the booklet uses bright visuals and simple language to support children’s understanding while guiding adults to deliver clear, developmentally appropriate messages. It also provides reassurance for educators, parents and carers who may be unsure how to approach sensitive topics.

The activity booklet aligns with Quality Area 2 – Children’s Health and Safety of the National Quality Standard, which mandates that services take every reasonable precaution to protect children from harm and hazards. 

It also supports compliance with the Child Safe Standards, which call for the implementation of strategies that promote child empowerment and engagement, including education about personal safety and respectful relationships.

In early learning settings, educators are well-placed to play a key role in prevention through daily interactions that support children’s sense of agency and safety. 

By integrating protective conversations into routines and play, educators contribute to an environment where children feel seen, respected and safe to speak up.

The activity booklet is intended to be used flexibly at home, in early learning settings, or during community programs and is freely available for download. 

Whether used during group time, quiet play the resource offers a simple, evidence-informed way to strengthen protective behaviours and open lines of communication.

Adults and educators can access the activity booklet here.

If you, or someone you know, is impacted by child sexual abuse or online exploitation, support services are available.