Pros of Teaching Children Correct Anatomical Terminology:
As a fully paid-up member of the modern parenting generation, I don’t hold with any of those silly nicknames for body parts. The genitals are a part of the body just like any other, and if your kids know what things are called, I figure there’s less potential for embarrassment later on when such body parts may come up in conversation.
I know. I’m your parenting role model, aren’t I?
It’s a technique that works BRILLIANTLY. For example, this week, we were at the GP to talk about Flea’s eczema:
GP: Now, I can see the insides of your legs are quite sore, aren’t they? Do you scratch them?
Flea: Sometimes.
GP: And does it ever itch down there?
Flea: Down where?
GP: In your private parts. Do they ever itch?
Flea (to me): Does she mean my vulva, Mummy?
Top notch parenting in action there, I know.
Cons of Teaching Your Children Correct Anatomical Terminology:
Before you print off this post and rush to follow my example, you may want to bear in mind there are moments when my parenting approach might seem – well – a little less than ideal.
For example, last month we were invited to the Christmas party at Drayton Manor.
Being five, Flea decided she was old enough to go on some rides without adult supervision. So while Flea rode her first ride, I was standing about eight feet away, behind a fence. The ride finished and Flea begged to go straight on it again. Bear in mind, the distance between us meant this conversation happened at TOP VOLUME in a busy family attraction.
Flea: Mummy, can I go on this ride again?
Me: Sure, did you like it?
Flea: Yes, I want to have the funny feeling again.
Me: Ah, did it make your tummy feel wobbly?
Flea: No, it tickled my vulva. What? WHAT? Stop laughing at me.
One day in therapy, she’s going to tell this story. And in the meantime, I will continue to ask myself over and over why I didn't teach her to call it something like her 'twinkle' or 'special flower'.
