May We Suggest: Understanding bodies and consent for kids

A variety of books with text reading May We Suggest: Bodies and Consent

These books help little ones learn about their bodies, that their body is their own, and how to set boundaries with other kids and adults. 

Will Ladybug Hug? by Hilary Leung

Will Ladybug Hug? by Hilary Leung

A sweet storybook all about friendship, high-fives, consent, and of course, hugs. Ages 0-3.

Yes! No!: A First Conversation About Consent by Megan Madison

Yes! No!: A First Conversation About Consent by Megan Madison

This book serves to normalize and celebrate the experience of asking for and being asked for permission to do something involving one's body. It centers on respect for bodily autonomy, and reviews the many ways that one can say or indicate "No." Ages 2-5.

Bodies Are Cool by Tyler Feder

Bodies Are Cool by Tyler Feder

My body, your body, every different kind of body! All of them are good bodies! Ages 3-5.

We Listen To Our Bodies by Lydia Bowers

We Listen To Our Bodies by Lydia Bowers

Give children a vocabulary to understand and communicate their feelings, develop personal boundaries, and build their social and emotional skills. Ages 3-5.

The Bare Naked Book by Kathy Stinson

The Bare Naked Book by Kathy Stinson

A joyful and matter-of-fact children's book about diversity and celebrating human bodies. Ages 3-5.

Don't Hug Doug (He Doesn't Like It) by Carrie Finison

Don't Hug Doug (He Doesn't Like It) by Carrie Finison

Meet Doug, an ordinary kid who doesn't like hugs, in this fun and exuberant story which aims to spark discussions about bodily autonomy and consent. Ages 3-7.

Can I Give You A Squish? by Emily Neilson

Can I Give You A Squish? by Emily Neilson

Kai, a merboy, loves to share hugs with his mother, but learns that some friends prefer fin bumps, tail claps, tentacle shakes, or claw pinches. Ages 3-7.

Rissy No Kissies by Katey Howes

Rissy No Kissies by Katey Howes

One little lovebird shows everyone that there's no one right way to show you care. Ages 4-9.

I Said No! by Zack King

I Said No! by Zack King

Uses kid-friendly language and illustrations to help parents and concerned adults give kids guidance they can understand, practice and use. Ages 4-7.

No Hugs! by Deirdre A. Prischmann

No Hugs! by Deirdre A. Prischmann

Zara loves hugs, so she is confused and upset when her friend Alice doesn't want a hug. They eventually learn that hugs take two--and that there are other options. Ages 5-8.

Let's Talk About Body Boundaries, Consent & Respect by Jayneen Sanders

Let's Talk About Body Boundaries, Consent & Respect by Jayneen Sanders

A child growing up knowing they have a right to their own personal space, gives that child ownership and choices as to what happens to them. These concepts are presented in a child-friendly and easily-understood manner. Ages 5-8.

Miles Is The Boss Of His Body by Samantha Kurtzman-Counter and Abbie Schiller

Miles Is The Boss Of His Body by Samantha Kurtzman-Counter and Abbie Schiller

When Miles decrees that he is the “Boss of his body,” his whole family expresses support and respect for his personal boundaries. Ages 8-12.