How Do Parents Feel About Their Kids Masturbating?

Masturbation is a common childhood behavior among children, regardless of their biological sex. It is not unusual for young children to touch themselves for pleasure, and it is not uncommon for parents to stop them from doing it in front of others. Most children, both boys and girls, play with their external sex organs or “private parts” fairly regularly by the age of 5-6 years. By age 15, almost 100 of boys and 25 of girls are involved in masturbation.

Masturbation is often disguised as self-stimulation or awakened a desire for it. Before puberty, most kids don’t masturbating to orgasm; it simply feels pleasurable to them. Some even do it to soothe themselves. When parents discover their child’s masturbatory play or activity, some react with embarrassment, anger, or moral outrage. However, masturbation is a natural, enjoyable, and safe part of childhood. Parents should encourage their children to do so, as most have some form of trauma that creates a shame reaction.

Dr. Mike suggests giving more affection to children, such as ruffling their hair, holding or hugging them, and giving a gentle spoken reminder. Masturbation can sometimes be used as self-soothing behavior for school-age kids, especially if they feel lonely or rejected by classmates. Parents need to teach their children that masturbation is a private act and that there are certain ages where this behavior will peak.

In conclusion, masturbation is normal, healthy, and natural for everyone, regardless of their biological sex. Parents should teach their children that masturbation is a normal and enjoyable behavior, and that it is a good idea to discuss it with their children.