# Body vocabulary

**Should we teach our child the correct names for body parts?**

What words you use for body parts: the anatomical names, family nicknames, or avoiding the subject.

In short: Parents choose between 3 main approaches: Anatomical names from the start; Family nicknames; Avoidance. Evidence: well established. Guidance and evidence agree. The real question is whether you'll follow it. Best settled: toddler.

- Area: Health, body and toileting
- Evidence: Well established
- Best settled: Toddler
- First published: 2026-10-03
- Last updated: 2026-10-05
- Page: https://www.raisingyourchild.com/topics/health-body-and-toileting--body-vocabulary

## Body vocabulary: what are the options?

1. **Anatomical names from the start**: You use the correct names for body parts, including genitals, from the beginning.
2. **Family nicknames**: You use your family's own pet names.
3. **Avoidance**: You avoid naming or discussing those parts.

## Body vocabulary: what does the evidence say?

**Well established.** Guidance and evidence agree. The real question is whether you'll follow it. (Settled in guidance)

AAP advises proper names for all body parts

Sources:

- [Contemporary Pediatrics](https://www.contemporarypediatrics.com/view/aap-tips-for-teaching-children-about-body-boundaries-and-safety)

## What else is worth knowing?

Using correct names for body parts is recommended by child-safety experts, because it helps children talk clearly about their bodies. Some families prefer pet names from habit or comfort. It also affects how later talks about bodies go.

## Questions to ask each other

- What words did our families use, and how did that feel?
- Do we want to use the correct names, and why or why not?
- How will we explain private parts and body safety?

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General information, not medical advice. Two parents can each answer this and compare: https://www.raisingyourchild.com/explore?cat=health-body-and-toileting&topic=health-body-and-toileting--body-vocabulary