How We Use the NSPCC Talk PANTS Campaign to Keep Children Safe

In our setting we use the NSPCC Talk PANTS campaign to help children learn, in a gentle and age-appropriate way, how to keep their bodies safe. Talk PANTS is a simple set of rules that helps children understand that their body belongs to them, that they have a right to say no, and that they can always talk to a trusted adult if something worries or upsets them. We introduce these ideas slowly and sensitively, using everyday language that young children can understand.

PANTS stands for: P – Privates are private; A – Always remember your body belongs to you; N – No means no; T – Talk about secrets that upset you; and S – Speak up, someone can help. We do not go into graphic or frightening detail. Instead, we focus on body boundaries, personal space, and the idea that children can say no to unwanted touch, even from people they know, and that they should always tell an adult they trust if something feels wrong or confusing.

To make Talk PANTS meaningful and reassuring, we use a range of age-appropriate activities and resources. These may include simple stories and picture books that show characters learning about body boundaries, catchy songs and rhymes from the NSPCC materials, and colourful posters that remind children of the PANTS rules in a friendly, positive way. We also use gentle role play, such as practising how to say “no, thank you” to unwanted hugs, or how to tell a grown-up if something has made them feel uncomfortable. Activities are always adapted to the age and stage of the children, and staff are careful to keep the tone calm, warm, and reassuring.