How do I tell my child where babies come from?
A lot of parents dread the day when they have to have that age-old talk with their children about the birds and the bees. Even at a very young age, your child could spring the question, "Mommy, where do babies come from?" This question, though, has various meanings depending on the age of your child.
Ask a couple of questions first
This will help you ascertain their current level of understanding and what information you're actually looking for. They may just want to know what hometown they're from and may not need any graphic details.
Use simple, age-appropriate language
You don't want to go into too many details or cause them to have more questions and possibly fears than they started with.
Honesty is the best policy
Stick to the facts and keep it simple. The most simple answer will most likely satisfy their curiosity.
Don't panic!
Try to stay calm, be relaxed, and be as matter-of-fact as possible. This is going to be the first of many conversations you will have about very sensitive topics throughout their lifetime. You want them to know that it is OK for them to approach you about this and every topic.
Reviewed by Eva Benmeleh, March 2020
I am dreading this day and am surprised that my four year old hasn’t asked this question yet. I almost very blatantly made a comment in the bathtub the other night. She was poking at her vagina and I asked her if it was bothering her and she said it was gross… So I almost said, “It’s not gross, you know you came out of my vagina when you left my belly.” I bit my tongue though thinking that I was not prepared for this conversation yet! 🙂