Talking To Children About Their Bodies

[bednobs]

just had a reasonably naturally occurring converstion with my daughter regarding how her body was hers, and she should only let other people touch the bits she wants them to touch, and tht some horrible adults want to touch children in a way they wouldn't like. Werounded off the conversation with how it was ok to say no, if anyone tries to touch her in a private place. (well much less of a conversation, more me telling her the above)
my husband was worried that she was too young to have a conversation like this, but it felt natural to me
Is 4 too young?

[jackthehat]

Unfortunately, there seems to be no 'lower-age' in the minds of those who would abuse and so I think it only right to start 'age-appropriate' discussions whenever you feel that they are ready.

You know her best. :o)

[Peter Pedant]

No ... the kids get taught this in skool nowadays
and it is just as you said

[Peter Pedant]

No not too young I meant

[ummmm]

Not in my opinion. I think if we speak openly and honestly (obviously age related language) from a young age then they'll feel free to ask questions as when.

[Tilly2]

if she understood it, then it was fine.

[bednobs]

thanks all, it's nice to have re-assurance im not weird

[ladyalex]

Totally fine conversation to have.

Secrecy about bodies, body parts, touching etc etc can lead to trouble, not honesty and openness.
You are not in the least weird.

[jno]

sounds good to me. Ideally they'd know about it even before they actually understood it - so they'd feel it instinctively without having to stop and think about it.

[anneasquith]

I would say yes, but she is your child and you know her best.

[Old_Geezer]

Seems good to me.
Good luck with the next doctor or dentist appointment though.

[bednobs]

yikes, is the dentist going to want to touch her la la do you think?

[ummmm]

lol...

OG - they are taught what is private.

[Patsy33]

Well done!

[cassa333]

If what was said was appropriate for her age then it is right to say it.

I would maybe say something about how adults, in those situations, might try to suggest it is a secret. That there are good secrets such as not telling mummy what her birthday present is and bad one when someone says they will get into trouble if they tell.

[Smowball]

No I think it's the right age

[mandimoo]

you did the right thing. I've been having similar convo's with my daughter for several months now, keeping it brief, but re-affirming it. This might make you laugh (or it might not), but just earlier today she herself was fiddling around her pants area and I once more placed her hands on her knees instead, to which she said "its MY gina and only IM allowed to do what i want with it"