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Is it masturbation? She's just 6 y/o.

Found my little girl touching her private part. Not just once but thrice, first just her hands last time with a pencil. I was so shocked, afraid, upset, I actually dont know what to feel. She's just 6 y/o. I don't know what to do or to say to her. I'm afraid to leave her alone in her room because she might do it again and I'm afraid that I'm losing trust. I asked her who taught her that but she just told me her brain let her do it. I'm sure she did not see it from me, I'm a single mom, no relationship, i work at night, sleep in the morning. My mom is 54 y/o, no husband, my brothers does not live with us. I'm not sure if she saw it on the television, as far as I know she only watches cartoons. How can I stop her from doing that? Thanks!
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replied August 14th, 2011
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motherofonelovelygirl,

She is just doing the natural exploration of her body. Masturbation is not harmful. However, if you freak out, then she may too. You should explain that it is okay for her to explore her body, but that it is a private thing. You need to explain the boundaries, that it is not proper to do it in front of other people. She is old enough to understand this (a two year old would not be old enough to understand). You might also tell her that if she uses sharp, pointed objects, she might hurt herself. But, it is quite normal for children to use pillows, stuffed toys, the edge of the bed, etc to rub up against.

If you google "childhood masturbation" there are several links to very good sites. The University of Michigan has an excellent article on the subject, with several frequently asked questions. But, there are also many other equally good sites.


Again, she is just exploring her body.
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replied August 15th, 2011
Thank you so much! I really appreciate your comments/replies. Yeah, maybe it is the right thing, talk it over with her. I was just afraid in the beginning because I'm not used to seeing that and true enough children these days are really advanced. Good thing I discovered this site. God bless to both of you Smile
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