Olympic Gymnastics Champion Aly Raisman is not just a phenomenal athlete; she’s also a powerful advocate for abuse survivors, using her platform to empower others. Now, with her debut children’s book, “From My Head to My Toes,” she’s aiming to equip young kids with essential knowledge about consent, using their voice, and body autonomy.
Raisman’s illustrious gymnastics career includes multiple Olympic gold medals, notably as a member of the U.S. teams “The Fierce Five” in 2012 and “The Final Five” in 2016. However, what many didn’t know at the time was that Raisman was among the victims of abuse by USA Gymnastics team doctor Larry Nassar, who is now serving a life sentence for his crimes.
One year after her third Olympic gold medal, Raisman bravely shared her story, joining fellow Olympians like Simone Biles, McKayla Maroney, and Gabby Douglas in shedding light on Nassar’s abuse. Turning her trauma into power, Raisman is now using her children’s book to educate kids about recognizing warning signs and asserting boundaries.
In collaboration with advocacy organizations like Darkness to Light and Monique Burr Foundation, Raisman crafted a narrative suitable for children aged 4 to 8, ensuring it addresses complex topics in a digestible manner. The book emphasizes the importance of body autonomy, teaching kids that they have the right to say “no” or “stop” if they feel uncomfortable, and encouraging them to seek help from a trusted adult.
Illustrated by Bea Jackson, the book features diverse characters and scenes that children can relate to, including Raisman’s own activities like gymnastics and gardening. Through vibrant imagery and empowering text, Raisman aims to normalize difficult conversations and instill a sense of confidence in children.
Raisman believes that education and awareness are crucial in preventing abuse, emphasizing the need for both children and adults to be informed about the signs and how to respond. By creating a safe space for dialogue, she hopes to empower children to use their voices and feel empowered to speak up.
Beyond her advocacy work, gymnastics remains an integral part of Raisman’s life. She recently ventured into commentary for NCAA Women’s Gymnastics, witnessing the sport’s growing popularity and the joy it brings to athletes. While she misses competing internationally, Raisman encourages kids to pursue their passions wholeheartedly, emphasizing the importance of finding joy in what they love.
As for the upcoming Olympics in Paris, Raisman refrains from making predictions until closer to the event but expresses confidence in her teammate Simone Biles, renowned as the greatest gymnast of all time. Regardless of her retirement from elite competition, Raisman continues to inspire others with her resilience, advocacy, and unwavering commitment to empowering future generations.
