The Way It Is

The Truth about Peanuts

My wife and I made the decision a few years ago to give things to our kids straight. We wanted to be completely honest with them and not beat around the bush or tell them things that would lead to confusion later on. (With the exception of certain bearded men and winged fairies) Before we made this decision we had a bad habit of using alternative words for their anatomy. Some examples are: Julie, don't touch your "private". Or, Mikey don't play with your "friend". Billy, get your hands off your "wee-wee". I know, I know, some strange choices - especially "friend", and that's exactly why we decided to stop.

So, we've started explaining to the kids what a penis and vagina are and have used those words. Those aren't words that are needed often, but there are times when it is appropriate to say it. We hope the kids will appreciate having a knowledge of things at home before they learn them from other sources, be it at school or around friends. We also try to help them understand that those are words that are used appropriately.




A few days ago my three-year old was going to the bathroom and my wife was helping him get his underwear and pants back up. He pointed to his "private" and asked: "Is this my peanut?" You just can't make this stuff up!

As a parent, it's nice to know the things you are teaching your kids are sinking in.

Labels: anatomy, children, education

posted by Ben Arkell @ 8:15 PM