Despite society’s nostalgic notions about childhood being idyllic and innocent, all children experience distress, frustration, disappointment, and anger, on a regular basis. One in five children has a mental health problem which needs attention and which is likely to get worse, not better, over time.

Exploration and curiosity about all bodily functions, including sex and reproduction are normal and healthy, and experts encourage parents to provide information to their children, to answer their questions, and to refrain from punishing or shaming them when they touch themselves, or engage in play with siblings or peers.