How can I tell when I need to be worried?
Sexual behaviour is one of the ways children and young people learn about their bodies, feelings and relationships. Many sexual behaviours are an expected part of development and reflect curiosity, learning and exploration.
What can be difficult is knowing when a behaviour is developmentally typical and when it may indicate a need for additional support. The same behaviour can have different meanings depending on a child's age, developmental stage, experiences, relationships and circumstances.
Understanding behaviour within these contexts is important. Recognising problematic and harmful behaviours early can support timely assessment, guidance and support.
How this collection helps
These resources will help you spot the signs of unsafe behaviours. You'll find information on sexual development at different ages and when to seek extra support.
The continuum of sexual development
Understand the range of sexual behaviours from developmentally expected and age-appropriate through to problematic and harmful behaviours.
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Early years
Understanding sexual development and behaviours in young children.
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Primary
Recognising developmentally typical and problematic and harmful sexual behaviours during the primary school years.
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Teen
Understanding sexual development, relationships and behaviours in adolescence.
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More recognition resources
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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.