Overcoming the Behavior Challenge of Children Learning about Good Touch and Bad Touch

Overcoming the Behavior Challenge of Children Learning about Good Touch and Bad Touch is a gentle, supportive guide designed to help children—and the parents, teachers, and therapists who care for them—understand body safety, consent, and appropriate versus inappropriate touch. Many neurodivergent children, including those with Autism, ADHD, and developmental delays, need direct, repeated instruction to recognize safe behaviors and protect personal boundaries.

Created by a multidisciplinary team of Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs), Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs), and Registered Nurses (RNs), this evidence-based guide uses clear language, visual supports, and behavior strategies to help children learn about good touch, bad touch, and their right to feel safe and in control of their bodies.

With this book, you’ll learn how to:

• Introduce body safety concepts using child-friendly terms
• Teach the difference between good, bad, and confusing touch
• Use visuals and routines to reinforce safety rules and boundaries
• Help children practice saying “no,” asking for help, and identifying safe adults
• Respond to body-related behaviors with clarity, compassion, and consistency

Whether you’re a parent, special education teacher, BCBA, or mental health provider, this book provides tools to build trust, promote personal safety, and reduce risky behaviors without fear or shame.

All children deserve to understand their bodies and feel empowered to speak up.
You GOT THIS!
— The OBC Team: Dr. Holthaus, BCBA Melissa Killam, and SLP Maggie Kuykendall