Ashley Bendiksen, an award-winning abuse prevention advocate, speaker, and coach, specializing in topics like boundaries, self-advocacy, and overcoming trauma, has released a children’s book, “A Kids Book About Boundaries.” Submitted photo.
Press Release
Southcoast native and nationally recognized advocate Ashley Bendiksen has released a new children’s book designed to help families talk about boundaries, safety, and self-advocacy.
Her book, A Kids Book About Boundaries, published by DK Books / Penguin Random House, helps children understand how to identify unsafe situations, communicate their needs, and respect the boundaries of others. Written to be read together by a parent or caregiver and child, the book offers a practical way for families to begin important conversations about personal safety and healthy relationships.
A former Miss New Bedford and Fairhaven High School graduate, Bendiksen held numerous leadership roles with area nonprofits, driven by her passion for youth empowerment, community wellbeing, and social justice.
Today, Bendiksen is a nationally renowned expert speaker who works with students, educators, families, and youth-serving organizations across the country on topics including healthy relationships, abuse prevention, and trauma resilience. A teen trauma survivor herself, she combines lived experience with professional expertise to help others recognize red flags and build a sense of agency, while equipping adults to better support struggling youth.
“Boundaries are about more than just physical safety,” Bendiksen says. “They’re about emotional well-being, respect, and helping children understand that their voice matters. It’s the kind of book I wish I had growing up, which makes sharing it especially meaningful.”
Through relatable examples and kid-friendly language, the book introduces children to different types of boundaries — physical, emotional, and social — and provides simple phrases and scenarios that help them practice speaking up and advocating for themselves.
A Kids Book About Boundaries is part of the bestselling A Kids Book About series and is designed for school-aged children and their families.
The book is available wherever books are sold, or learn more at www.ashleybendiksen.com.
“A Kids Book About Boundaries” by Ashley Bendiksen and published by DK Books/Penguin Random House was released on 4/7/25. Submitted photo.
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