Body Talk: What Preschoolers Need to Know (continued)

Private Parts are Private

When discussing private parts, teaching your child awareness of his or her genitalia should not be the end of the discussion. Barsky urges parents to also discuss the issues of personal safety. “It is important to emphasize to your child that certain areas are private," she says. "Explain that people should not be touching your child unless it is at the doctors’ office with a parent, or it is purpose driven, like for bathing or changing diapers.” It's necessary to help your child to understand that she should come tell mommy or daddy if anyone asks to look at or touch a private part of the body.

The bottom line? The next time your child asks a question about her body, take a deep breath and begin a pleasant conversation that is factual and honest. Use teachable moments as avenues to begin discussions and always ask your child if she has any questions for you. Open communication with your child about her anatomy will start your child on the road to a healthy relationship with her body, and with you as a parent.

• More about sex education and your 3-year-old
• More about sex education and your 4-year-old