Noor Says NoIs playing doctor normal for young children?
Sources reviewed on November 1, 2026. Based on public advice, see below.
Usually, yes. The American Academy of Pediatrics says sexual behaviors in children are common, especially between about 3 and 6 years old, and are usually a normal part of development. They are driven by curiosity, not by anything sexual. Stay calm, redirect, and use the moment to talk about body rules.
What counts as normal at this age?
The AAP lists common behavior in 2- to 6-year-olds. It includes touching their own genitals, looking at or touching a peer's or sibling's genitals, showing genitals to peers, standing too close, and trying to see peers or adults naked. These behaviors come and go, are not very frequent, and are easy to distract.
What do you do when you walk in on it?
Stay calm and do not get angry. Redirect your child's attention. The AAP offers a sentence for touching their own body: "It's OK for you to touch your own body but you should do that in a private place." Then use the moment to talk about body safety and respecting each other.
When should you talk to a professional?
The AAP calls these sexual behavior problems. Ask your pediatrician if the behavior:
- keeps a child from focusing and cannot be redirected,
- causes emotional or physical pain or injury,
- goes along with aggression, coercion or force,
- imitates adult sexual acts, or involves children 4 or more years apart.
Such signs can have several causes, including exposure to sexual content or abuse. They do not prove anything by themselves. A doctor can help you sort it out.
Is touching themselves a sign of abuse?
No. The AAP says it is a mistake to assume it must have been taught. Children simply find their genitals and notice that it feels good.
What rule can you teach?
Keep it short: clothes stay on when playing with friends, and no one looks at or touches private parts. Read how to talk about private parts.
Frequently asked questions
Should I tell the other child's parents?
A short, calm heads-up can help if both children were involved. Stick to what you saw and avoid labels. The AAP's advice is to stay calm.
My child was upset afterward. Is that normal?
Behavior that causes emotional distress is on the AAP's list of things to raise with a professional. Ask your pediatrician.
Keep reading
- How do you talk to your child about private parts?
- How do you talk to a young child about sex?
- What are the signs of child abuse in a young child?
All topics are in the overview of parents' questions. The big picture is in the guide How do you explain to your child what is safe and what is not?. Want to practice this with your child? That's why the picture book Noor Says No was made.
Sources
Each source was read on November 1, 2026. These organizations are not connected to this site or the book.
- American Academy of Pediatrics, HealthyChildren.org: Sexual Behaviors in Young Children: What's Normal, What's Not?.
This is general information, not a replacement for professional help. Worried about a child? In the US, call or text Childhelp at 1-800-422-4453. In the UK, call the NSPCC at 0808 800 5000. Immediate danger: call 911 or 999.
