FINAL TSTO Lesa Dec 14.pdf - Flipbook - Page 21
Star t now: use the right names for body par ts
Correct name
Other names
breasts
boobs, boobies, norks, knockers,
melons
clitoris
clit, button
nipples
cherries, tits
vagina
fanny, front bottom, twot, mutte,
munay
vulva
lips, petals
penis
doodle, JT (John Thomas)
member, willy
scrotum
ball bag, ball sack, gurras
testes
balls, eggs, nuts
2 to 5
If you have had a 2 to 3 year old in your life you might have
noticed that they like being naked. And they are also very
interested in other people’s naked bodies. Because genitals are
usually covered they are especially interesting. They will also
notice that boys’ and girls’ bodies are different, and ask ‘why’ or
‘what’s that?’ Body functions, especially going to the toilet, are
also of great interest. Parents are allowed to have their privacy
and close the door on their curious children if they wish.
As part of their fascination in the body, children may start to
play ‘you show me yours and I’ll show you mine’. This sex
play might more accurately be called ‘naked’ play, spurred by
curiosity in each others’ bodies.
Many children will touch their genitals for comfort or
pleasure.
They may also ask lots of questions about bodies, and where
babies come from. A simple accurate explanation like ‘babies
grow in a special place inside the mother called the uterus,’
is usually enough.
What parents can do
Read the books written for children about these
topics before reading together with your child, for
example, Everyone’s Got a Bottom (see page 66 for
recommendations).
Teach children that every part of the body has a name
and its own ‘job’ to do. Answer their questions. Point out
that girls and boys have lots of parts that are the same
and some that are different. Boys have a penis, and girls
have a vulva (‘vulva’ is the name for the female external
sexual parts/genitals). For older children tell them that
boys have a scrotum and testicles, and girls have a
clitoris and vagina.
If children are touching their genitals in public places you
can tell them that it is something to do at home, in private.
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