A 2-year-old boy has come to the well-child clinic with his mother for a checkup.When the nurse asks his mother whether she has any concerns,she says,"I don't know why he won't quit touching his 'privates' all the time.I have tried sitting him in a chair,smacking his hand,and telling him no,but he continues to do this.I just don't know how to make him stop." How would you best respond to her concerns? Select all that apply.

A) "Give him a little time, and he'll grow out of it. He's just too young to understand right now."
B) "How often do you punish him by giving him a time-out or by using physical discipline?"
C) "Physical punishment, such as smacking his hand, is not the best way to modify a child's behavior."
D) "It isn't unusual for him to fondle his genitals, as this is part of his exploration of his body."

The first 2 years of life are highly sensual as infants are nursed,stroked,bathed,and massaged,and they develop their first attachment experience through bonding with the mother.It is not unusual for infants and preschoolers to fondle their genitals and enjoy being nude.This is part of their exploration of their bodies,and parents should not overreact.Although health teaching about normal sexual development of toddlers is important,this mother's comments are a red flag to appropriate discipline.Her exaggerated response using physical reprimands to a 2-year-old child bears further exploration about other potential for physical harm or abuse within the home.The nurse has a responsibility to assess risk to the child for an abusive situation and counsel the mother about alternate methods of dealing with the behavior.