What is normal toddler exploration for a 3 year old

[Anonymous]

My 3 old DD will go to her room at least 1-2 times a day and basically dry hump her stuffed animals or play with herself with her fingers. She did this once or twice in the living room and I didn't want to shame her so I just told her that this was something she had to do in private in her room. Now my question is whether the frequency with which she does this is typical or if I should be concerned? I have not see any other signs of abuse but I was molested as a teenager and I am terrified of this for my daughter.

[Anonymous]

I am not an expert about this but I do think this is relatively normal. Teaching her about boundaries and what's appropriate in public vs private, as you did is the best way to handle it. Don't forget that it does feel good so it is not surprising she continues to try it.

I don't think you should be concerned unless something more serious happens. She will more then likely grow out of this exploring stage. With your own experiences you might be overrating (which I don't blame you for, I am sorry for what you went through)
Good luck OP

[Anonymous]

meant overreacting

[Anonymous]

Very normal, make sure to add a "hand washing" talk to the "privacy" talk.

[Anonymous]

Thank you so much. I had placed a call in to the doctor bc I felt so terrified about the possibility of anything happening to her. I realize that my own experiences are coloring my objectivity.

[Anonymous]

I'm not saying this is not normal, but neither of my boys played with themselves this much. I'm sure that will come later... It sounds like you'll feel better after you talk to you ped, so that's the best move you can make right now.

[Anonymous]

I think it is normal. My sis and cousin both did that at about that age.

[Anonymous]

On the one hand, this is normal. On the other hand, you might want to consider that your child is BORED. Why doesn't she have better things to do?

[Anonymous]

This really is not Off Topic at all, it's General Parenting. You'd have more feedback if you posted in the proper forum.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:On the one hand, this is normal. On the other hand, you might want to consider that your child is BORED. Why doesn't she have better things to do?

I really don't think it is boredom, she has preschool in the mornings and in the afternoon we go to the playground, library, gym class, or playdates and then we relax at home before dinner. She generally has a pretty busy schedule so I make sure that she has some time to just play at home before bedtime.