In the beginning years of life, children grow rapidly in many ways. There are physical, cognitive, affective, social and spiritual developments. Infants and toddlers show certain characteristics which are then further developed in the later years of childhood and which contribute to their understanding of human sexuality.
Characteristics of Early Childhood Infants and toddlers discover the body through looking and touching, and through growing in their ability to control bodily functions. They learn to express themselves through word and gesture, music, dance and role playing; their natural curiosity and imagination motivate their cognitive learning as well as their spiritual development.
As they progress through the later stage of early childhood, children achieve more independence in caring for their bodies. As they begin to accept themselves as unique persons, children also come to a clearer understanding of their identity as boys or girls.
Their ability to ask questions, make choices, know right from wrong, and accept responsibility for their actions is evident in their behavior. Spiritually, children begin to pray formally and spontaneously, trusting in God who loves and cares for them. In the early childhood stage, it is important for children to have around them significant adults for purposes of bonding, nurturing, and guiding.
Parents and guardians provide a sense of security for children; they help children accept themselves without guilt or shame. Socially, young children begin to move from total self-centeredness to a limited sense of others. They begin the process of socialization through interaction with siblings, friends, and significant adults.
