Growing bodies
Three year olds are naturally curious, and it's normally around about now that children become particularly interested in their bodies, and in particular how boys' bodies differ from girls' bodies.
Don't be too surprised if you catch your child playing "I'll show you mine, if you show me yours" - it's all part of growing up.
What's this all about?
Aged three, children are fascinated by the differences between the sexes, and the ways in which bodily functions differ. It's important to remember that your child is just curious, and that this is a perfectly natural part of the developmental process.
This curiosity may manifest itself in any number of ways - they may want to watch you in the bathroom, play "doctor", compare bodies with their friends and so on.
How should you handle it?
But my child's only three! Surely they're too young to know about sex!
Well - clearly what you decide to tell your child, and how you decide to handle the situation, is of course entirely up to you and will of course need to sit comfortably with your own beliefs. But remember, how you handle their behaviour and questions now may have an impact on how they view sex in the future.
I think the key here is to be prepared! I've popped down some tips for dealing with some common situations below:
Playing Doctor/Comparing Bodies
You may be shocked, but try to avoid a knee-jerk reaction. If you respond in anger then you're sending out a message that nudity is wrong, curiosity about bodies is wrong etc.
This is not the most healthy message - after all - they're just curious. Try to remain calm and gently suggest that they get dressed, and you can talk about the differences between boys and girls bodies.
It's really useful to have a child-friendly book on hand to help you out here! You'll then be sending out the message that it's perfectly fine to be curious and that you're willing to help them learn.
I'd also suggest that if a child other than your own is involved that you let their parents know. They may not agree with the way in which you handled the situation, but at least they will have the chance to talk to their child about it too.
Touching
Children touch themselves for many reasons - it's comforting and a normal part of development.
It's can be a tricky one to tackle, but I'd suggest that you recommend that it's something which should be done in private - i.e. not when other people can see you. This will foster a sense of appropriate behaviour, respect for others and for themselves, rather than making them feel like they were doing something wrong.
Answering Questions
Your child is bound to have hundreds of questions about their bodies, where babies come from and so on.
Again here, being prepared is key. Get some books on the subject, so when the questions are asked you can be ready to answer them.
At this age children are seeking only basic information, so you don't need to go into graphic detail, but nonetheless try to answer any questions as honestly and fully as you can - as tales of storks and cabbage patches are likely to cause confusion!
Play & Pretend
Their growing bodies mean that children will notice they can do things today that they couldn't do often only a few weeks ago. Have fun with your child and help them improve their balance and coordination skills with a popular Mini Ps game Walk the Tape Rope.
