Question about 4 year old and exploration of her body...

shaina925

I nanny for two girls ages 2 and 4. Last week the 4 year old started laying on her stomach and putting her hands under so that she could touch herself (over the pants)  this happened right next to me and several times off and on.  When I went back the next time she did it again.  I just ignored the behavior, because obviously she is not my daughter.  The question is, do I say anything to the Mother?  I mean, of course it is normal for children to be curious about their bodies, I just do not know how to go about this. Any advice/suggestions would be great.  Thank you. 

Xath

I don't have direct experience with this, but I've read that one option is to talk to them about how they can do that, but it's something they should do in the privacy of their room.

Since she's not your child, and this is a sensitive issue that can really vary depending on the family, I'd talk to the parents about your planned approach and make sure they concur.

Leap08

I'd mention it to her mother and ask her how she'd like you to address it. It's a really common thing for young children to do. I've told my daughter that there is absolutely nothing wrong with it, but that it is a private thing and something she should do when she's alone. 

sunnyday016

I would probably ignore it. I'm sure the mother knows that her daughter does it and is addressing it (or not addressing it) in her own way.

gnrkrystle1

The best bet is to always tell the parent anything the kid is doing that is "new". It's not about shaming her or that the behaviour is abnormal. But as a mom, we just like to know everything you can think of to tell us that our kids do when we are gone. That's not usually a question that comes up in the typical "end of the day" run down, so maybe just mention it in a casual way. If you think the mother might be embarrassed or offended, just say, "I know it's completely normal, I just wasn't sure if you noticed but..."