Satisfy their curiosity by answering their questions. You can have a conversation with your child about why genitals are a private area of the body. Even though this behavior is relatively common, you still need to address it. Again, these games are usually motivated by curiosity. These games can involve same-sex or opposite-sex participants. It’s not uncommon for children this age to play games that involve showing and touching genitals. Interactions often involve teasing, using “dirty” words, and making childish sexual comments. In general, children place the most importance on relationships with children their own age and their own sex. Relationships with friends matter to kids as they grow older. Interactions with peers become more important. As the child’s understanding of these social dynamics deepens, their own gender identity becomes more defined. Often this awareness begins to develop when someone at school has “two dads” or “two moms.” Sense of gender develops.Īs children grow older, they become more aware of gender roles and observe how others navigate gender expectations. Grade school aged children start to observe and understand that every adult relationship isn’t heterosexual. Awareness of different sexual orientations. However, it’s important to teach children about the importance of privacy, especially since as they continue to mature, their own privacy will become more and more important to them. This interest isn’t sexual and is rooted in curiosity. They might try to sneak peaks of parents or siblings when they’re changing. Your child could ask, “But how do the sperm and egg get together?” Interest in others’ bodies.Ĭhildren at this age are interested in others’ bodies, especially bodies of the opposite sex. For example, saying that a sperm and egg make a baby might not be enough information. Shouldn’t that curiosity start with puberty? The reality is that children have questions about sex, and they might expect more detailed answers than they did when they were really young. Sometimes parents assume that grade-school aged children aren’t particularly curious about sex. And to help guide your responses, here are some typical behaviors that generally aren’t cause for concern. As you respond to your child, trust your intuition. Should you be concerned if they ask certain questions about sex? What if you find your nine-year-old is curious about people’s bodies? Knowing what’s typical and atypical can help you know what to expect and guide you in having age-appropriate conversations. One challenge in having those discussions can be knowing what’s typical behavior for your child’s age. Here at Saprea, we’re always advocating for parents to have discussions with their kids about healthy sexual development.
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