ladbible logo

To make sure you never miss out on your favourite NEW stories, we're happy to send you some reminders

Click 'OK' then 'Allow' to enable notifications

Aussie Schools Are Teaching Kids To Not Kiss Grandparents In Order To Learn About Consent

Aussie Schools Are Teaching Kids To Not Kiss Grandparents In Order To Learn About Consent

"They can respectfully say 'no thanks Grandma, let's have a hug instead.'"

Stewart Perrie

Stewart Perrie

It should come as no surprise that kids are learning about consent.

With the rise of the #MeToo movement and the Western world's developing views on the issue, the idea of body control and ownership has never been more important.

So you'd think it's a good thing that young kids are being told at an early age that they are in charge of their bodies and should let others know what the boundaries are.

However, one course has raised a few eyebrows, with some people saying it goes way too far.

HUSHeducation

The Australian Government released the Respect Matters curriculum however it was up to the states and territories to actually adopt it.

In Victoria, some schools have adopted the Respectful Relationships program, which was a suggestion made during the Royal Commission into Child Sexual Abuse that would hopefully combat future instances of abuse.

It's been teaching kids that they have the right to say 'no' to whatever they think violates their personal space.

Childhood educator Margie Buttriss told the ABC: "We're talking about situations such as Grandma wants to swoop in for the big sloppy kiss and if the child doesn't want that to happen what can they do.

"And they can respectfully say 'no thanks Grandma, let's have a hug instead'. Or if it's someone they don't know, 'let's high five, let's fist bump'."

Unsurprisingly, news of the program has sparked a bit of backlash from people.

"You have got to be kidding me. A grandmother can't show affection to their grandchildren?! Empowering them against ALL shows of affection is going to screw them up for life," wrote one person on Twitter.

"Soon we will be encouraged not to give our kids presents or gifts as it will empower them against potential pedophillic advances. Why not teach them how dangerous it is to play outside, due to their exhaling of breath being the reason behind global warming. Come on!! Seriously?!" said another.

A third added: "What a ridiculous program. This is just going too far. What empowers these children is the love and affection from their Grandparents who play a big role in their lives."

What these people don't fully grasp is that the program is only meant to inform kids of their rights.

The program isn't actually teaching these kids to go out and reject every single kiss and hug from grandma, but just that they are in charge of their own bodies.

Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock

Topics: News, Australia