Parenting Pointers: The Date Safe Project

Disclosure: I received complimentary products to facilitate this post. All opinions are my own.

The Date Safe Project is dedicated to promote healthy relationships and a culture of consent in a society that still doesn't always seem to take the issue of sexual assault and consent seriously. The site has resources for parents, schools, and military, as well as a way for anyone who is passionate about the issue to become a licensed presenter to educate others.

Founder Mike Domitz has also written a book, May I Kiss You, that explores communication and consent in relationships. It covers a wide variety of topics, including self defense, sexual harassment, double standards, the influence of family and friends, and more. Some of the situations or dialogues in the book might seem like they'd be embarrassing for a teen to bring up, but quite honestly, if a couple can't communicate honestly and openly about respect for physical boundaries, then they probably shouldn't be dating!

I had the opportunity to interview Mike to learn more and get some tips.

1) What was the inspiration behind The Date Safe Project?
1. My sister, Cheri, is the original inspiration to me speaking out against sexual assault. The strength and courage she displayed after being sexually assaulted has always inspired me. Today, all of us at The DATE SAFE Project continue to be inspired by the survivors we meet around the world. We are committed to the belief that every person deserves for each sexual experience to be consensual (wanted, freely given, between two people of sound mind and legal age). Our organization is constantly creating resources and programs that teach "How To" Skills for creating a Culture of Consent.

2) At what age is it appropriate to start talking to kids about safe dating and consent?
2. As soon as your child is engaging with other children socially, you should be teaching respect of boundaries and the body. Schools have seen kindergarten and 1st grade students inappropriately engage in sexual behaviors. As the child gets older, you have more in-depth conversations that are age appropriate. One of the biggest mistakes parents make is not talking early enough in a child's life. The result is that the child turns to other sources such as peers, the Internet (pornography), and the media/entertainment culture. If a child has been learning from those sources for a significant period of time, parents are going to have a tougher time getting their son or daughter to listen later in life.

3) What tips do you have for parents who might find it awkward to bring the conversation up?
3. For parents who feel awkward about having conversations on dating, sexual decision-making, and safety, do some research with credible sources. Often school counselors and social workers have pamphlets for helping Moms and Dad with these conversations. Our website at www.DateSafeProject.org has videos and articles for helping parents engage their teens in this vitally important discussions. 

You can learn more when you like DateSafe on Facebook or follow @DateSafeProject. The Date Safe Project Youtube channel also has a lot of great videos you can use to start the conversation about consent and learn more.