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Development of an Educational Booklet Focused on the Prevention of Sexual Abuse in Early Childhood

Hugo RODRIGUES, Sofia GUTIERREZ, Márcio DE MELO and Naila DE OLIVEIRA

Child sexual violence is a serious public health issue and a violation of children's rights, with heightened vulnerability in early childhood, particularly within intrafamilial settings. Despite its protective role, sexual education faces resistance in school and family contexts, underscoring the importance of early sexual education in promoting bodily autonomy and preventing child sexual abuse.To develop an educational booklet on sexual education aimed at early childhood (ages 2 to 6), focusing on the prevention of child sexual abuse and violence. This methodological study was conducted in two stages: content planning based on a literature review, and development of the educational booklet, including text, illustrations, and graphic layout, guided by pedagogical, psychological, and visual communication principles appropriate for early childhood.The educational booklet was developed using simple language, short sentences, and examples drawn from children's daily lives, combined with playful, welcoming, and visually accessible illustrations. The content addressed key topics for the prevention of child sexual abuse, such as bodily autonomy, recognition and naming of intimate body parts, differentiation between appropriate and inappropriate touch, the right to say "no," distinction between good and bad secrets, and identification of trusted adults. The material demonstrated pedagogical coherence, suitability for the cognitive and emotional development of young children, and potential to promote communication, self-esteem, and the strengthening of self-protection skills. The organization of the content and the selection of visual resources were aligned with theoretical frameworks of child development, particularly those proposed by Piaget, Vygotsky, and Freire, as well as scientific evidence on the prevention of child sexual violence. The playful and affirmative approach facilitates understanding of the concepts without generating fear or insecurity, while respecting fundamental ethical and psychological principles. The integration of text and images enhances information assimilation and reinforces the booklet's role as a mediator of dialogue between children and adults, strengthening the child protection network. The booklet demonstrates potential as an educational and preventive tool in school, family, and community settings, contributing to children's bodily autonomy, assertive communication, and protection against sexual violence from an early age.