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Why Do Babies Touch Their Genitals? Parental Guide to Normal Behavior

Watching your baby grow and reach different cognitive milestones is quite intriguing. Sometimes, your baby’s actions mesmerise you, while at times, they may embarrass you. One such action of your baby that may make you feel uncomfortable is the “baby touch genital” phase. Do you find it uncomfortable when he does this during family gatherings? You are not alone. Millions of other first-time parents may feel the same. Read on to know why do babies touch their genital often and how should you react when your baby touches his genitals often in the best way possible.

What You Need to Know?

Kids between 1.5 and 2 years love exploring their body parts as part of their cognitive development. They touch their body often, and their genitals are an additional organ for them to explore. Kids treat their genitals the same way they treat their legs, face, hands, etc.

When your kid exhibits this behaviour in public, you may feel embarrassed about it. While you may be justified in doing so as a parent, understand that this is completely normal behaviour for kids when they reach a particular stage. They outgrow this habit eventually, and you have nothing to worry about this action.

How Should You React As A Parent?

When you notice your baby touching his genitals, here are some points you should keep in mind so that you don’t fret over this matter:

Ø Genitals may be associated with something uncomfortable or embarrassing for you, not for your child. He treats his genitals as a part of his body the same way he treats his arms or legs. He doesn’t know the purpose of this organ.

Ø Babies are quite curious and love to explore their own bodies whenever they have nothing else to do. Some babies suck their toes, some touch their genitals and so on.

Ø Don’t react too harshly or get into panic mode when you see your baby touch his genitals. You can easily distract him by showing him a new toy or something interesting. Yelling and reacting harshly may make him want to do this action repeatedly.

Ø Keep your baby’s hands and nails clean always so that he doesn’t get any infections or rashes when touching his genitals.

Conclusion

Allow your baby to explore his body as much as he wants. This is an important cognitive milestone that kids achieve when they are about to turn two. While ignoring is best, you can also try to divert him from this habit by showing him something interesting.

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Sources: acko.com, flo.health, babycenter.com

Disclaimer: This blog provides general information and discussions about health and related subjects. The information and other content provided in this blog, website or any linked materials are not intended and should not be considered or used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Kindly contact your doctor before starting a new medicine or health regime.

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Published on February 6, 2025