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10 Difficult Questions Children Ask About Their Changing Bodies
As a parent, the moment arrives when your child begins to inquire about the changes in their bodies. This transition can be awkward, yet it is a crucial part of their development. While I was bracing myself for these conversations, I found myself reflecting on my own childhood experiences—sitting in class, trying to appear nonchalant while the topic of anatomy was introduced. The mere mention of certain body parts could send my classmates into fits of giggles or shock.
Now, as an adult, I aim to navigate these conversations with my children in a way that is both informative and comfortable. It’s essential to create an open line of communication so they feel safe asking questions rather than relying on potentially misleading information from peers or the internet. In preparation, I even purchased a book about human anatomy for my child, encouraging them to explore it at their own pace.
However, the questions that arose were often unexpected:
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“Mom, those pictures of breasts—what stage are you in?”
What I wanted to say: “Oh, dear child, after years of life and breastfeeding, mine might not match those illustrations!”
What I actually said: “These are cartoons. Everyone looks different.” -
“Do you even need to wear a bra?”
What I wanted to say: “Seriously?”
What I actually said: “Not really, but it’s more socially acceptable.” -
“What’s that stuff that leaks into underwear?”
What I wanted to say: “Vaginal discharge.”
What I actually said: “Vagina juice.” Awkward, I know. -
“What is Virginia juice, Mom?”
What I wanted to say: “It’s pronounced Vagina, sweetheart.”
What I actually said: “It’s pronounced Vagina, honey.” -
“Do I have a Virginia, Mommy?”
What I wanted to say: “It’s VAGINA!”
What I actually said: “Go play.” -
“What’s a Virginia, Mommy?”
What I wanted to say: “Seriously? It’s VAGINA!”
What I actually said: “It’s a state, dear.” -
“Why is it called the ‘Public Area’? It shouldn’t be public!”
What I wanted to say: “It’s actually called the ‘Pubic Area’.”
What I actually said: “Exactly!” -
“What does menstruate mean?”
What I wanted to say: “It’s like a monthly invasion of ninjas in your belly.”
What I actually said: “It’s a gift that allows us to have children.” -
“Does Daddy do it?”
What I wanted to say: “Nope, lucky guy!”
What I actually said: “Nope, only girls do it.” -
“What does Daddy get to do?”
What I wanted to say: “Enjoy life with a penis.”
What I actually said: “Take out the trash.”
I was ready to discuss where babies come from, the use of sanitary products, and even societal beauty standards. Instead, I found myself trying to justify the necessity of a bra while grappling with the realities of my body’s changes. Despite the challenges, I want my children to view these conversations with curiosity rather than dread. After all, understanding their bodies is part of growing up.
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In summary, while the questions my children ask can be surprising and sometimes uncomfortable, they are also an opportunity for open and honest dialogue about their bodies. Creating an environment where they feel comfortable discussing these topics is essential for their understanding and development.