Masturbation is the stimulation of the genitals. It is not unusual for infants to masturbate.  Body  exploration is part of growing up. However this behavior in young kids make parents uncomfortable.

 
Infant masturbation is done by both boys and girls.  How common it happens depends on the child’s age. Masturbation is quite common up until the ages of 5 and 6. This is because young  children are curious about their bodies and find masturbation pleasurable and comforting .  At this age, they are also interested in knowing the difference between boys and girls. As a result they explore each others bodies including the genitals.

As the child gets older around age 6 and up, they become more conscious  about their environment and public masturbtion tends to subside. Masturbation in private may continue to some extent. As the child reaches puberty accompanied by increase in sexual hormones and curiosity, sexual tension rises and masturbation becomes a regular part of adolescent life.

What you should do about infant masturbation ?

 
Do not panic : First of all do not panic if you see your child masturbating.  It will not pose any physical harm or health risk to your baby. It also doesn’t mean that your child will be a sex maniac. Infant masturbation is not sexual.

Even though such behavior in kids may be a tipoff of sexual abuse or exposure to inappropriate sexual  material, this is hardly the case. A sexually abused child is more likely to be withdrawn and have trouble sleeping. Children masturbate because it feels good.  However if your child masturbates excessively or constantly, it could  indicate a problem. It could a sign of lack of attention, feeling anxious or  emotionally overwhelmed. In this case, you need to talk to your doctor.

Ignore your child :You may  have already explained to your child that certain parts of her body are private . Privacy means nothing to a 3 year old or younger.  You should also note that a child at this age is seeking to push your buttons. By paying attention to her, you will push her to do it more. Your best bet is to ignore the child.

Distract her : It is embarrassing  for your child to masturbate even though it is quite common at this age. You can just distract the child. Children masturbate because they are bored, hands are free and they can do it. Keep your child busy by giving him puzzles to do , toys to play with or tossing a ball around.

NOTE

It is important  not to make your child feel bad about exploring  her body or  that what she is doing is dirty.This will create a sense of guilt and secrecy  and this may lead  to unhealthy sexual behaviors.
 
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