This part of the website is for youth. You might need the help of a trusted adult to look at this or you might be able to look at it on your own.

Personal Boundaries

Have you heard people talk about ‘having boundaries’? Boundaries help people to stay safe and be responsible.

There are different types of boundaries that act as a way to separate spaces, people, touch and trust.
  • Walls and fences are boundaries that we can see. We also set rules about who can come into our physical space, who can get close to us and touch us.
  • We use boundaries to set limits or rules, and understand what’s OK and not OK for us to do, say or take part in. This includes who we share personal information with, who we trust.

You’re the owner of your body. You get to control your actions, body and words and this helps you to set boundaries. You can decide.

Good to Know

An important part of taking care of your body is saying who can touch you and come into your personal space. Imagine your personal space like a bubble around you– this is your personal boundary. Sometimes we like people coming close to us, and other times it doesn’t feel good. Some people like hugs. Some people aren’t huggers. Some people like hugs but not all the time. Hugging is a choice.

What is Public and What is Private?

Growing up includes learning what activities, behaviours and information are private.

PUBLIC

Public means you can share something with others.

It also means that you’re with other people.

PRIVATE

Private means something is not for sharing.

It also means you’re alone.

Body Boundary Rules

  • Private body parts are parts that are covered by a bathing suit or underwear (including breast and chest area).

  • Private body parts need to be covered when you’re in public places e.g., school, work, shared spaces at home such as your family room.

  • If you want to touch or scratch your private parts, wait until you’re in a private place.

  • No one can touch your body without your permission or without a health/care reason e.g., help with bathing, visiting a doctor.

  • It’s OK to say no if you don’t want someone to hug or touch you.

  • You can’t touch someone else’s body without their permission.

  • No one can see your body without your permission.

  • You can’t look at someone else’s private parts without their permission.

  • Don’t show your body to anyone who does not want to see it.

  • Don’t keep secrets about touching; it’s not ok if someone tries to bribe or trick you to keep a secret; it’s not ok if someone asks you to keep secrets about touching.

Watch the video You Get to Decide to think about what you would do to make sure your boundaries are safe.

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Learn more about Healthy Boundaries