Is this normal for toddlers or is it a red flag?

Question

A mother of a  2.5 yr. old called me and told me that her son is putting his genitals on his toys. She didn't go into any detail or anything, so I only know what she told me. I know that children this young are aware of their genitals and will acknowledge it when they are naked. Is his behavior normal or should his mother be concerned? She thinks it may just be 'a phase'.

Dissonance · Accepted Answer

Have her keep an eye on the behavior. If it increases in intensity or it's combined with other behaviors, then she should definitely see the doctor.

Toddlers all have a natural curiosity with their genitals. However, if the behavior escalates, or if it is done to the exclusion of normal childhood activities, then it is time to seek help.

uscjessie · Answer

My son is 2 1/2 - once he discovered his privates, he was fascinated with them.  He went through a similar phase for about 3 months. In his case, it started during potty training. Toddlers discover things all of the time.  I think that's all it is - curiosity. I'd keep an eye on it and if it persisted, I'd ask his pediatrician.

B · Answer

It's normal. It's just a phase, probably will end when he is about 27 years old. After college they start to settle down. Usually;)

momto5rugrats · Answer

Uh he's a boy and that is his own personal toy that never gets lost. My sons always had their hands down their pants. One on the bottle and the other in the diaper. No, there's nothing wrong it's normal. I have 4 boys none were sexually abuse and they all made sure their privates were there daily.

avonmom · Answer

I think it is normal. My son is that age...and I KNOW he has not been abused...and he has a thing for waving his at me!! I honestly don't know where he got the idea from. he also is obssessed with telling me big or little. truthfully I think the child you asked about is just exploring how things feel.my son likes to roll around naked on my flannel bedsheets.

dfghjkl · Answer

It's a phase.  Best thing not to make a big deal about it, no yelling, no laughing, just very matter of factly tell him to pull his pants up.  Worked for my son.

j3brat · Answer

It is normal for kids this age to play and learn about their genitals. It is possible he saw another child do this or somebody else showed him. Hopefully his mom is right.

Abby Normal · Answer

My little bro was alittle obsessed with running around naked grabbing himself so I think its just a phase.

That&#39;s my final answer · Answer

Of course it's ok. He is a child, he is discovering his body. She just needs to make sure he isn't hurting himself. No red flag.

crrllpm · Answer

Yes it is a phase. Little girls find their private parts too and explore them. Just ignore it.

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Is this normal for toddlers or is it a red flag?

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