It’s one of the hardest — and most important — conversations parents can have: teaching kids about consent. In this episode of the Happy Families Podcast, we break down the powerful lessons from Parental Guidance season 3, episode 2, including insights from consent educator Dan Principe. From why consent conversations can’t wait, to the right age to start, to how to empower kids without shame or fear — we’ll help you get comfortable having uncomfortable conversations, and raise kids who understand respect, boundaries, and healthy relationships.

KEY POINTS

• Why consent education starts “before age two” — and why “early and often” matters.
• The startling reality: 15–19 year old girls are the largest group of sexual assault victims; 15–19 year old boys are the largest group of perpetrators.
• Why old-school “guns and shovels” attitudes harm more than they help.
• The role of ongoing, informal and formal family conversations about tricky topics.
• The three E’s: Explore, Explain, Empower — the simple framework for any difficult talk.
• How social media and “sharing” require kids’ consent too — even within the family.
• The risk of silence: what happens when kids don’t feel safe coming to their parents.

QUOTE OF THE EPISODE

"We need to get comfortable being uncomfortable — because no young person should feel like their curiosity or desires are shameful." — Dan Principe

RESOURCES MENTIONED

• Dan Principe: Consent educator and speaker (recommended for schools)
• Federal Government’s Consent Can’t Wait campaign (Justin as ambassador)
• More parenting resources at: happyfamilies.com.au
• Watch Parental Guidance seasons 1–3 on 9Now

ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS

1. Start the conversation early — even before they understand the words, practice being open and clear.
2. Commit to ongoing “early and often” chats — not just one big talk.
3. Schedule regular family check-ins to discuss tricky topics.
4. Use the three E’s: Explore what they know and feel, Explain what’s important, Empower them to make good decisions.
5. Check in on consent within your own family dynamics — ask before sharing kids’ stories or images online.
6. Drop the fear-based jokes and attitudes — empower kids with respect and tools, not shame or threats.
7. Remind yourself: if they don’t learn it from you, they’ll learn it somewhere else.

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