I talk to parents every day who are embarrassed by a child's sexualized behavior. As a result, they often avoid addressing it.
When sexualized behavior doesn't get addressed, kids don't learn appropriate boundaries. It's important for kids to know what is acceptable and what isn't.
For example, small children need to learn the difference between safe and unsafe touch. Kids who know the difference and know the anatomically correct words for their body parts, are at a reduced risk for becoming victims of sexual abuse.
When kids exhibit sexualized behavior, it doesn't necessarily mean they've been abused. It usually stems from a lack of knowledge about what's appropriate and what isn't.
Start talking to kids about their bodies and boundaries at a young age. Address the behavior in a non-shaming and direct manner.
Learn more about how to address sexualized behavior and how to recognize the signs when a child may need professional help.