Breaking the Stigma: Responding to Self-Touch with Care
When a child with autism touches their private parts, the room often goes silent. Adults freeze. Panic sets in. But what if we told you that your response should be as calm and matter-of-fact as when your child says, "My tummy hurts"? The way we react in these moments shapes not only our child's understanding of their body but also their sense of safety, dignity, and self-worth. The Stigma We Need to Address The Uncomfortable Truth Society has wrapped sexuality, bodies, and private parts in layers of shame, embarrassment, and taboo. When a child with autism—who may not understand these unspoken social rules—touches themselves, adults often respond with: Visible shock or horror Loud reprimands or scolding Physical intervention (grabbing hands away) Whispered conversations and uncomfortable glances Isolation or punishment Why This Response Is Harmful These reactions teach children that: Their body is shameful Their needs are wrong They cannot trust adults t...