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It was the first time I noticed him in a full stare. I mean, he’s looked at me before, but this time seemed a little different. I’m not certain if it’s all in my head or if I should even care. But what if he really was staring? What is he really thinking?
You are probably wondering what the heck I am talking about. Well, I’m referring to my 8 year old who I caught staring at me as I changed in front of him. Yup, full naked mom bod in front of my kids. Age appropriate? Let’s discuss…
Many would say, “what’s the big deal?” And to be honest, I don’t think it is. I have changed in front of my kids, let alone showered in front of and with my kids since becoming a parent. And I have never thought anything about it.
Until last week when I noticed that this time he was really staring.
Okay, so work with me here. He’s eight years of age. A lot of things are likely going through his head on a daily basis. He probably doesn’t even understand half of the things he thinks about.
When I was the age of 8 I had crushes on boys. Was I starting to wonder about bodies? Who knows? I sure don’t remember!
But is that what is going on with him? Is he looking at me because I am the only female in the house and he’s used to seeing boy and daddy parts? Does he wonder, “do all boobs look like that”? Or “Is that what a vagina looks like”?
I don’t even care that he thinks about this stuff. It’s good and it is educational and his dad and I are happy to speak to him about whatever he wants, whenever he wants. But when he stares, I now wonder if he is becoming of the age where I should be covered up.
So, do I stop changing in front of him?
Is eight years old an age where I have to stop being naked in front of him? Because I sure as hell don’t know the bloody rules!
I even asked him if he prefers me not to be undressed in front of him. I asked him if he had any questions. But he said no. We all know already that he’s not one to overly express himself or share feelings very often.
I grew up in a household of girls and one man; my father. And to be honest, I have no idea when my dad stopped being naked in front of me or whether he ever was for that matter.
Is there an age where appropriate becomes inappropriate?