Tips on Healthy Sexual Development
By Alissa Thiele, Dakota Children’s Advocacy Center
As kids grow, it’s natural for them to become curious about their bodies and the bodies of others. They begin to notice differences, explore their body parts, and discover different sensations. These moments allow caregivers to talk about bodies, privacy, and boundaries in a calm, supportive way.
Instead of avoiding these conversations or making children feel embarrassed about their curiosity, we should welcome their questions and offer simple, age-appropriate answers. Keeping the conversation open helps children feel comfortable coming to us as their questions and needs change.
Caregivers often wonder what they should talk about, and when. Darkness to Light created a resource that outlines healthy sexual development and suggests healthy vs. unhealthy conversation topics for toddler through teenage years. Use it as a starting point to help your child navigate their body’s changes, understand and respect boundaries, and know they can turn to you with questions or concerns.
A few quick tips caregivers should note include:
- Use correct names for body parts.
- Model “comfortable” touch, such as hugs that are welcomed.
- Talk to your child often about appropriate boundaries (both their own and others).
- Respect your child’s need for privacy.
- As children get older, begin having age-appropriate conversations around body responses, puberty, and sexuality.
Click here for printable tips on healthy sexual behaviors and how to facilitate healthy sexual development conversations at every age.