My daughter came downstairs last night and asked me not to tuck her in, she wanted to say goodnight down stairs. I went to check her 10 minutes after she went back upstairs she had taken her underwear off and got a little embarrassed when I asked her what she was doing. Is it normal for an eight year old to explore herself ?

All kids explore themselves don't even get mad just laugh about but as she gets older and she still does it you going to have to tell her that, that is not what she I suppose to do to her self...

Normal and healthy for everybody. However, sexual exploration at that age is a little young, can you PLEASE check that she is safe? Children who display early sexual interest SOMETIMES are being exposed to adult sexual behaviours (abuse).

If you can catergorically state she is safe, then take it that she is learning about her body.

The post above is a little misleading "Not Supposed to do to herself????" what does that mean?-yes she is!

Consider the human body as a machine without a user manual-how are we supposed to understand how our bodies work and there are many aspects of being human, sexual, physiological and psychological. If we don't explore, how will we learn?

Best wishes-and good for you for your calm response to her, predicament.

That shows a good parent.

PM me if you wish to discuss this further.

Most children enjoy the sensation of exploring their body many first get that experience riding a bike or while bathing, and to most peoples surprise children begin to get curious about this around the ages of 8- 12 and it is normal for many people, it is actually encouraged by doctors for a women to explore themselves. At her age it is just a curioity and if you haven't disscused sex with her yet nows the time, it may be embarrassing for the both of you but it would be better for her to hear the real facts from you than lies from other people, and if you do want more advice you can contact your family docter and they may be able to help you out more with better facts and ways to open the conversation.

Good Luck
Slikmix

This is completely normal for children, even at younger ages. The best thing you can do is pretend you did not notice her doing this and not make a scene. She is not doing this because she desires sex but only to understand her body and how it feels... very normal and healthy. Masturbation is also normal and healthy for children so don't freak out if you catch her doing this and remember to knock before you go into her room now :)!