A classroom workshop designed to assist kids with personal skill building around the development of appropriate physical, social and emotional boundaries relative to personal body safety.

Personal Boundaries are limits we establish between ourselves and other people. Boundaries define what we feel is acceptable and unacceptable in relationships. Boundaries may change with trust, time and life experiences.

Physical:

Physical Boundaries are often defined in our culture as "personal space" or the distance we feel comfortable allowing others to occupy as we communicate with them. The more we trust others the closer we allow them to physically approach us. For example, best friends tend to sit close, share almost anything while classmates sit further away and share less property.

Social:

Social Boundaries are defined by the roles, norms and customs which prescribe certain appropriate types of behaviour. Laws govern social boundaries, preventing inappropriate behaviors for certain types of social interaction. For example, there are laws in effect that state that children cannot date adults.

Emotional:

Emotional Boundaries determine how much and what personal information people share within a relationship. The more intimate the relationship, the more personal information we share. For example, best friends tell each other everything, while classmates may only talk about school matters.

Establishing physical, social and emotional boundaries help us to judge the acceptable and unacceptable in all our social interactions. Without boundaries, our lives and relationships would be chaotic. Establishing healthy boundaries allows people to feel secure and in control of their personal safety.

Sometimes in the course of our lives other people cross our established boundaries. Boundary violation may be thought of on a continuum from slight to serious.

Often times, the boundary violation may be accidental, other times the intention may be hurtful. Boundary violations may range from dirty looks, gestures and comments to assault and sexual abuse.

Each of us is in control of setting and defending our own boundaries. Being aware of our own value system and how to respond is key to protecting ourselves against serious boundary violations like sexual abuse and harassment.

Information:

• Know your rights.
• Know how to speak and act assertively.
• Know about laws that govern boundary invasion.

Communication:

• Be aware of how both verbal and physical language effects others.
• Know and practice "I" messages.
• Do not hesitate to tell others "No" and "Stop"!

Identify Available Resources:

• Indentify supportive knowledgeable and trustworthy people who can help you when needed.

Personal Boundaries and More Facts About Personal Boundaries are classroom workshops designed to assist kids with skill building and development of appropriate physical, social and emotional boundaries.

Students learn:

• The definition of personal boundaries and the importance of defending them when violated.
• The relationship between personal boundaries and personal body safety.
• Application of educational information to everyday situations.

Personal Boundary Workshops are coordinated by the St. Clair County Child Abuse/Neglect Council with the financial support of the Michigan Children's Trust Fund and the Community Roof-Sit for Kids.