Consent and Communication: Building Healthy Relationships

The topic of consent can feel tricky to navigate, but it’s a conversation that should start early and continue often. On the newest episode of the Young & Healthy podcast, Ashley Cremeans, a social worker with the Mayerson Center for Safe and Healthy Children at Cincinnati Children’s, sits down with host Kate Setter to explore how consent can be discussed across different ages and stages of development. 

Ashley discusses how families can approach conversations about consent during adolescence, reinforcing that consent is ongoing, can be withdrawn at any time and applies in many everyday situations. She offers practical guidance on helping children identify trusted adults and confidently communicate their boundaries — from playtime to physical affection and beyond. 

Ashley also dives into the complexities of teen relationships, including situations in which consent cannot be given. She explains consent laws within the tri-state area, equipping parents and caregivers with the knowledge they need if deeper conversations arise. 

This episode provides tools to help kids stay safe and feel empowered. Be sure to tune in and share it with your friends and family. 

Full Transcript and Show Notes Here: Consent and Communication: Building Healthy Relationships - Cincinnati Children's Blog

Resources: 

For more information from the Mayerson Center for Safe and Healthy Children at Cincinnati Children’s, visit Research | Mayerson Center for Safe and Healthy Children 

For resources on healthy dating relationships, visit Healthy relationships for young adults | love is respect 

Listen to Empowered Kids: A Guide to Boundaries | Young & Healthy and dive deeper into what boundaries for younger kids look like