I Said No! A Kid-to-Kid Guide to Keeping Private Parts Private by Zack and Kimberly King is a resource designed to empower children to set healthy boundaries and protect themselves from potential sexual abuse136. Written from a child’s perspective, this book uses kid-friendly language and illustrations to help parents, counselors, and educators guide children in understanding, practicing, and using safe behaviors13.Key Features:

• Kid-Friendly Approach: The book addresses a sensitive topic in a simple, direct, and “non-icky” way that is easy for children to understand13.
• Real-Life Inspiration: Zack and his mom, Kimberly, wrote the book based on Zack’s personal experience, aiming to help other kids navigate similar problematic situations13.
• Comprehensive Guidance: “I Said No!” covers a variety of topics, including what’s appropriate behavior, how to deal with inappropriate behavior, bribes, threats, and when/where to seek help134. It also addresses dealing with feelings of guilt and shame13.
• “Red and Green Flags”: The book uses a metaphor of red and green flags to help children recognize safe and unsafe situations2. Green flags represent appropriate touch, like checkups with a doctor or parents helping with hygiene, while red flags signal uncomfortable, unsafe, or scary situations2.
• Empowering Message: “Say NO,” “get away as quickly as possible,” and “tell a trusted adult” are the core messages conveyed in the book2.

Authors and Illustrator:

• Zack King: Co-author who drew from a personal experience to create this guide13.
• Kimberly King: Zack’s mom, a Navy wife and kindergarten teacher with a Master’s degree in Early Child Education1.
• Sue Ramá: The book’s illustrator, is a writer and illustrator and a recipient of the Tomie dePaola Award12.

Awards:

• Mom’s Choice Awards® Gold Recipient3

“I Said No!” aims to provide children with the tools and knowledge they need to recognize potentially abusive situations, set boundaries, and seek help from trusted adults236. The book uses a straightforward approach and easy-to-use system to help kids rehearse and remember appropriate responses to help keep them safe13.