Understanding sexual behaviour on a continuum: for carers
Share this resource with carers who want to better understand children's sexual behaviours and when to be concerned. It introduces the Layered Continuum, a framework for assessing behaviours.
Open this resource
Hosted on https://moodle.communities.wa.gov.au/file.php/1/PublicCourses/HSB/index.html • Opens in a new tab
How this resource can help
Use this resource to
Share with carers to support them to
Build confidence in distinguishing developmentally expected, developmentally inappropriate, and harmful sexual behaviours
Learn how to assess sexual behaviours within a child's developmental, social, and cultural context
Print the tip sheet or watch the video as handy ways to summarise how to use the framework outlined in the resource
It covers
An introduction to a framework for understanding harmful sexual behaviours, called the Layered Continuum
Examples of sexual behaviours across different age groups, from developmentally appropriate through to harmful sexual behaviours
Questions and considerations to help work through the continuum in practice
When specialist consultation and further support may be needed
More information
This resource is part of a suite of modules developed by the Australian Centre for Child Protection (University of South Australia) with funding from the Western Australian Department of Communities. You can view all modules via this link.
Open this resource
Hosted on https://moodle.communities.wa.gov.au/file.php/1/PublicCourses/HSB/index.html • Opens in a new tab
If you are a carer
You’re in the right place. This resource is for you – it can help you better understand sexual behaviours in children and young people, and when to be concerned. If you’re worried about something specific, you don’t have to figure it out alone.
Last reviewed by Together We Can: 12 August 2026
What is problematic and harmful sexual behaviour
Problematic and harmful sexual behaviour affects children, families, and communities. Understanding it clearly is the first step toward effective prevention, recognition, and response.
Your input matters
Know of something that should be included? Let us know
Tell us what you think, or suggest a resource, service or training opportunity.
Not a practitioner?
Parents and carers
If you’re a parent or carer seeking information or worrying about a behaviour, you're not alone. Find resources to help you understand child sexual development, support safety, and respond to concerns about sexual behaviour.
Children and young people
It’s normal to have questions about your body, feelings, sex and relationships. If you’re a young person looking for information – head here. We’ve got information just for you.