Renowned dancer and choreographer Kafayat Shafau, popularly known as Kaffy, has called on parents to establish firm boundaries between their children and adults in order to protect them from inappropriate behaviour.

In a video shared on her Instagram page, Kaffy recounted a personal experience from her childhood when she was subjected to inappropriate conduct by a trusted family friend.

“It happened right in front of people who trusted the person. At that age, I didn’t understand what was going on, but I knew something about it was wrong,” she revealed.

The award-winning dancer noted that abusers are often individuals who appear kind and helpful, stressing that they rarely fit the “monster” stereotype many parents imagine.

“Many of them seem caring — they are the ones who always want to help or be around the child. That’s why parents need to pay attention and set clear boundaries,” she warned.

Kaffy cautioned parents against placing blind trust in familiar figures such as “favourite uncles, aunties, nannies, or drivers,” urging them to teach their children that it is acceptable to say ‘no’ to unwanted physical touch or interactions, regardless of who the adult is.

She also discouraged adults from making unnecessary comments about children’s bodies or showing physical affection without consent, emphasising that every child has a right to personal space and autonomy.

“Many children face uncomfortable situations from people who are close to them. Parents must be vigilant and create boundaries,” she said.

Kaffy further encouraged parents to foster open communication with their children and to build emotionally safe environments where they feel comfortable reporting any inappropriate behaviour or discomfort.

“Protecting children starts with awareness. We need to pay attention and create a culture where children feel seen, heard, and safe,” she added.