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.

So my question to you is, is there an age where appropriate becomes inappropriate?

Please share your thoughts and experiences and lets get the conversation going!!

xo

D