Directions: First, review the case study about Logan. Determine if you think Logan's sexual behaviors are normative by answering the questions from the Sexual Behavior Reflection Tool (this tool is also available in the Apply section) and brainstorm how you would respond in the moment and after the fact. You may find it helpful to refer to the suggested answers for additional guidance. Share your responses with your trainer, coach, or administrator.

Toddler Case Study: Logan

Logan is a 18-month-old in a toddler classroom who is thought of as a healthy and typically developing child with a supportive family. Program staff have noticed that during diaper changes, Logan often attempts to touch his penis in a way that appears to be self-stimulating. Logan will become upset and cry when staff quickly finish cleaning him up, preventing him from continuing. This only lasts a few minutes, and Logan quickly moves on to playing.

One morning Danielle, Logan’s mother, requested to change Logan’s diaper before leaving, explaining that Logan had a bowel movement on the way to the center. The staff observed Danielle to respond to Logan’s touching by saying, “That’s nasty. Don’t touch your wee-wee!” as she quickly swatted Logan’s hands away from his genitals.

 

Sexual Behavior Reflection Tool

 

1. Is the behavior random or infrequent?

Yes, Logan only does this during diaper changes.

 

 

2. Is the behavior typical for the child’s age and developmental ability?

Yes, it is typical for children to touch their genitals.

 

 

3. Is the behavior driven by curiosity, exploration, and playfulness?

Yes, Logan is learning about his body and sensations.

 

 

4. If other children are involved, is it mutual and good-humored?

No other children involved.

 

 

5. If other children are involved, do they know each other well and are they of a similar age and development (<2 years)?

No other children involved.

 

 

6. Is the behavior easily redirected?

Yes, although he cries for a few minutes when diaper changing is complete, he quickly moves on to playing.

 

 

 Is this normative sexual behavior?

Yes.

 

 

Response Tool

 

Describe the behavior:

Logan self-stimulating during diaper changes

 

Responding: In the Moment

Pause

• Stay calm during diaper changes.
• Remember that Logan is exploring his body in a healthy way.

 

Redirect

• The routine is different when diaper changing is over.
• Logan likes to look at books; offer to read to him after diaper changes.

 

Listen

• Logan cannot communicate his behavior or why.
• Touches himself as a way to learn about his body.

 

Teach

• Model using developmentally appropriate language.
• "I'm wiping your private parts to keep your body clean."

 

 

Responding: After the Fact

Reflect

• Logan is a typical child demonstrating normative sexual behavior.

 

Prepare

• Know the In the Moment steps for this behavior.
• Redirect Logan with an enjoyable activity after diaper changes.
• Teach "private parts" or "penis" so he understands what the body part is called.

 

Communicate

• Communicate with co-teachers so responses are consistent.
• Speak with Danielle about how staff respond to this behavior. Ask Danielle for thoughts on the terms, "private parts" and "penis." 
• Offer information on Normative Sexual Development and Behavior