It's natural for children to ask questions like, "Where do babies come from?". However, that question can be uncomfortable for you as a parent, especially if it comes from the mouth of a 3-year-old child. Even so, your child deserves an answer.
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Part 1 of 3: Know What To Do When The Question Comes Up
Step 1. Don't underestimate the question
Your child is curious about the world. "Where do babies come from?" is a natural question, especially if your child is going to have a sibling.
Step 2. Answer the question directly
However, you do not need to provide more information than is asked. This means you don't have to talk about sex (not yet) if your child is just asking where the baby is from.
Step 3. Don't think your child is too young
If your child is old enough to ask questions, they are old enough to get answers.
Step 4. Relax and make yourself comfortable
Older children may feel uncomfortable asking questions about babies and sex. You have to admit that sex can make people feel uncomfortable, and that's normal. However, a simple child's question. If you're feeling uncomfortable, they'll know it. They may attribute the shame to their sex and body.
Step 5. Recall your knowledge
You should know the basics before talking to kids. Maybe you've forgotten what you've learned from sex education. Pick up a book to study it again.
Part 2 of 3: Answering Questions
Step 1. Tell the truth
You don't have to share all the information, but you do have to answer honestly. Don't make up stories about cranes or cabbages.
For example, your child may ask where you got him a new sibling from. You might reply, "Mom is raising a baby sister in the womb, which is near the stomach."
Step 2. Use language the children understand
Children ages 6 and under may not know you're talking about sex. Instead, talk about what it takes to make baby eggs and sperm.
For example, you can talk about seeds. If your child has ever helped with gardening, you might say something like, "You know plants come from seeds? Babies come from seeds too. Dad has seeds, and mom has eggs. They join together in mom's belly to raise babies."
Step 3. Use sources
You can get help answering your child's questions. For example, read a book with your child to help answer questions.
- Your library will have a large selection of books.
- You can also use educational websites. Many websites explain the basics to children. Make sure you explore the site with your child.
Step 4. Use the right terms
Don't be afraid to name body parts by name-penis, vagina, uterus, etc. As long as you are comfortable with the term, your child will too.
Step 5. Don't try to stop the conversation
Your child may be content with a little information, but sometimes he wants more. Wait until you have answered all the questions before moving on to another topic.
Step 6. Don't worry if your child wants to quickly switch topics
It doesn't matter if you provide bits and pieces of information, as requested. You don't have to have a one sitting talk about this. Let this topic flow as it is.
Step 7. Guide your child to understand pregnancy
If your child asks because the mother is pregnant, let your child be a part of it. That is, take him to an ultrasound examination so that he can see the development of the baby. Let him feel the baby kick. This activity helps your child understand the reproductive process.
Part 3 of 3: Know Your Child's Development
Step 1. Understand that all children are curious about their bodies
Even children under the age of 2 are curious about their bodies and the bodies of others. They are old enough to start learning the names of body parts.
Step 2. Know what a 3-5 year old child looks like
Children this age will begin to notice the differences between their bodies and the bodies of others. They are old enough to know what to hide.
For example, a child this age masturbates. However, they were old enough to know that this activity had to be carried out clandestinely. In fact, children under 2 years old can start learning about privacy
Step 3. Find out what 5–8 or 9 year olds know
Children this age can begin to learn about the basics of sex. They will also know the basics of relationships. For example, they will know that some people are straight, some are homosexual or bisexual. They also know about puberty at this age.
As explained above, don't be afraid to answer questions that come up. For example, maybe your child asks "What is a hand job?" You can answer: "Hand job is when an adult has sex, and one of them uses his hand to touch the other's genitals." Be honest and don't beat around the bush
Step 4. Find out what 9–12 year olds know
Children this age are ready to know what sex is. Also talk about safe sex with them, including about pregnancy control and condoms. Talk to them about the right age and conditions for intercourse, it should not be done until they are ready. Make sure that whatever they experience with their body is natural.
Step 5. Know how to talk to 12–18 year olds
Children this age will be increasingly embarrassed to talk about sex. However, if you talk to them beforehand, they will be ready to talk if they have a problem. Also reinforce the need for pregnancy control. Let them know how to understand it and help them access it when necessary. While this is difficult for most parents, you need to accept that children this age may already be familiar with intercourse.
