Erections

Erections can be embarrassing when they happen unexpectedly and in public. It can be helpful for your child to know what to do if they get an erection in public. Some things they can try are:

• Putting a bag, jumper or book on their lap
• Tying a jumper around their waist to cover their penis
• Doing activities to help take their mind off their erection can make it go away faster. For example, playing a game on their phone or tablet, or counting their fingers and toes
• Wearing shirts that can be untucked or are long enough to cover the erection

It is important to reinforce to your child that erections are private. They involve a private body part and should only be touched in a private place. Most children will discover that touching their erect penis feels good, so teaching about erections should be accompanied by teaching about the rules of masturbation.

Talking about erections is also private. Reinforce this by keeping conversations about erections private too.