They are aware of bodily functions and their link to sex. These children are very same sex oriented and may have some discomfort or fear about discussion sex. Masturbation and exploration are common at this age. Children may appear to be unconcerned with sex, but actually they are quite interested in the subject. They have learned from the nonverbal messages of adults that it is not okay to talk about sex and so they avoid the topic.
Children are also aware that touching feels good.
Communication Issues for Parents Try to stress that body parts or functions are not dirty and that the children should respect their own bodies as well as others'. Avoid using slang about homosexuality, body parts, and sexual functions. Make sure that they have complete information about puberty by the end of this stage. Be open and honest without being pushy. Brief discussions about sex are best at this stage.