Children engage in sexual behavior from birth until, well, the rest of their lives. Even though we expect kids to engage in some completely normal sexual behaviors like playing doctor or checking out other kids privates out of curiosity, it is very important adults kindly and gently stop the sexual behavior. When you redirect the […]
A Quick Review of Common Behaviors, “Sex Play” and Sexualized Behavior
Just a quick refresher about the difference between typical behaviors and sexualized behaviors. Your intuition will help you know the difference and remember, if you suspect abuse, you need to report it! GENERAL COMMON BEHAVIORS Bodies Touch Games Gender identification Self stimulation/masturbation TYPICAL & HEALTHY – “Sex Play” Spontaneous Mutual Good humored Good […]
Sexuality is a Fundamental Part of Being Human
Just like we are emotional, spiritual, intellectual and social, we are also sexual. Just like all these other elements of being human, sexuality develops over time and all throughout our lives. Healthy childhood sexuality does not look like adult sexuality – it usually looks like play. We worry when children engage in behaviors that appear to be […]
Red Flags and Warning Signs in Adults
Predators can be anyone… a man, a woman, another child. It is important for parents to understand that predators gain access to your child through you. Pay attention to your “gut” and look for consistent patterns in red flag behaviors such as someone who: Consistently insists upon arranging to spend alone one-on-one time with a particular […]
Good News for Washington State
Governor Gregoire signed into law a new Senate bill requiring state agencies to apply only for sexual health grants that fund programs which are medically accurate, effective and have shown real and calculable impact on participants. The new law repeals a former state policy that required the Washington Department of Health to apply for […]
