When Your Child Pops The Question : Where Do Babies Come From -...

3^min

As soon as children become aware of their own bodies, they inevitably start raising questions about sexuality ranging from how babies are made to why Daddy has nipples; which is quite normal.

You might expect your child to become intrigued about sexuality and reproduction between the ages of 3 and 5, but cannot yet comprehend (and does not at all need to) the complexity of the human body and the medical aspect of things.

These simple tips will help you keep things simple and straight to the point.

First of all, stay calm! It's easier said than done but nonetheless necessary. "The important thing is for a parent to explain difficult topics without seeming anxious," says Jerome Kagan, professor of psychology at Harvard University.

Keep the answer simple. When your child asks where he came from, answer without hesitation with a calm and rather joyful tone of voice.

Example: "It's a marvelous thing! A seed from daddy and an egg from mommy join together in mommy's tummy where the baby grows."

Even if a medical explanation is unnecessary, it is better to use the right terms (vagina, penis...) and avoid using terms such as "wee-wee" , which will make sex look like an Off-limits and awkward subject.

Some children will not stop at that! They will want to know "what is an egg" and "where the seeds are". Just keep answering as long as they are asking, being extra cautions not to snap or steer the conversation elsewhere. You want your child to be able to talk to you and confide in you.

You may also want to figure out what they already know, by gently answering their questions with other questions to find out what is it that they want to know.

You might also be comfortable to get children's books for more visual answers. These "first question" books are available in most bookstores but you may want to consult with your pediatrician or the school psychologist for the best available choice.