Advertisement
Little Kids

Playing doctor

Take a positive approach when talking to your child about sexuality

By Kathy Lynn
Playing doctor

Q: What’s the best way to react when you discover your three-year-old daughter playing doctor with the neighbour’s son?

A:
First, relax. At this age, it’s totally normal behaviour — the children are simply curious about the differences. Distract them with another activity. And, in a matter-of-fact way, let your neighbour know about the game and that you simply distracted the children but plan to speak with your daughter about sexuality.

It’s a good time to start the conversations with your daughter about the correct terms for body parts and about sexuality. Young children are as comfortable learning that they have a penis or vulva as they are learning about ears and elbows. One of the best books you can read your children is Boys, Girls and Body Science by Meg Hickling.

This article was originally published on Mar 08, 2010

Weekly Newsletter

Keep up with your baby's development, get the latest parenting content and receive special offers from our partners

I understand that I may withdraw my consent at any time.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Advertisement
Advertisement