Sexuality

Children have a natural curiosity about their own and other’s bodies. In general, children need age-appropriate boundaries and compassionate responses to their explorations. By avoiding shocked or shaming responses, parents help children learn to respect their own and other’s bodies. Often toilet training is a time when children become increasingly aware of their own genitals. Providing accurate and developmentally appropriate information about sexuality will help normalize and convey family values on the subject. If this topic is difficult for parents to explore with their children, they may seek support from a family therapist to explore how best to introduce it.

See also:
Body/Body Awareness
Masturbation
Touch

 

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