Age-Appropriate Sexual Behavior
Date
2013
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Child Sex Abuse Prevention & Protection Center
Abstract
Description
It can be hard to acknowledge that all of us, even children, are sexual beings, have sexual feelings and are curious about sex and sexuality. Children s curiosity can lead to exploring their own and each other s body parts by looking and touching. They may peek when family members are in the bathroom or changing clothes or try to listen outside the bedroom. They may look at magazines, books, videos, and on the internet. It can be hard to tell the difference between normal sexual behaviors and behaviors that are signs that a child may be developing a problem. Sexual play that is more typical or expected in children will more often have the following traits: The sexual play is between children who have an ongoing mutually enjoyable play and/or school friendship. The sexual play is between children of similar size, age, and social and emotional development. It is lighthearted and spontaneous. The children may be giggling and having fun when you discover them. When adults set limits (for example, children keep their clothes on at day care), children are able to follow the rules.
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Keywords
Child development -- Sexual, Child sexual exploitation, Guidelines, Parent, awareness