COLUMN: Beyond the Shelter – Back to school: Safety starts young

As students head back to school, families are preparing for new routines, classrooms, and learning opportunities. Alongside academics like math, science, and reading, schools also play an important role in helping young people develop the skills they need to build safe, healthy relationships.

Teaching children and youth about respect, boundaries, and consent from an early age lays the foundation for healthy relationships throughout life. These conversations do not need to wait until adolescence. Consent education can begin early with simple concepts such as personal space, asking permission, and learning to respect when someone says, “No.”

As children grow, these conversations can evolve to include topics such as healthy friendships, digital safety, peer pressure, online interactions, dating relationships, and recognizing unhealthy or abusive behaviours. When young people understand what respect and consent look like, they are better equipped to set boundaries, communicate clearly, and seek help when something does not feel right.

School-based education programs are a key part of reinforcing these messages. Through classroom presentations, workshops, and discussions, students can learn about healthy relationships, conflict resolution, online safety, bullying prevention, and gender-based violence. These programs give youth practical tools they can use in everyday life while also helping to build a culture of respect within schools.

Youth programs in the community also play an important role in prevention. Whether through sports, leadership opportunities, mentorship, or educational workshops, young people benefit from positive role models and safe spaces where they can build confidence, strengthen social skills, and explore important topics in supportive environments.

One of the most important lessons youth can learn is that consent is ongoing. Consent means freely agreeing to something without pressure, manipulation, or fear. It can be given, changed, or withdrawn at any time. Understanding consent helps young people not only respect others’ boundaries, but also recognize and communicate their own.

Parents, caregivers, educators, and community organizations all have a role in supporting these conversations. Young people often look to trusted adults for guidance, and creating space for open, age-appropriate discussions helps normalize talking about safety, respect, and healthy relationships.

Parents and caregivers do not need to have all the answers. What matters most is creating an environment where young people feel safe to ask questions and talk openly. For those looking for support on how to begin these conversations in age-appropriate ways, Agape House is available to provide information, resources, and guidance.

As we enter a new school year, it is important to remember that safety starts young. Every conversation about respect, boundaries, and consent is an opportunity to empower the next generation and contribute to safer, healthier communities.

If you are an educator, school staff member, youth leader, or community organization interested in bringing these conversations into your classroom or program, Agape House offers presentations and educational workshops on topics including healthy relationships, consent, boundaries, online safety, and gender-based violence. To learn more or book a presentation, contact Lisa Fast, Outreach Coordinator, at outreach@agapehouse.ca.

Agape House provides a safe space and 24/7 support to those experiencing domestic violence in Southeastern Manitoba. The local crisis line can be reached at 204-346-0028.