Innappropriate touching of genitals in the classroom.

I am a second grade teacher at a private school.  I have one child who is constantly touching his genitals during class time.  I have tried to speak with him on the side and I explained to him that it is not classroom behavior.  He knows he is touching himself, but keeps doing it. This behavior caught my attention when he never completed individual assignments. I would call out his name and momentarily he would get back to work.  It was only a matter of seconds that he was touching himslef again. I then tried to use a cue with him, and I said everytime you forget, I will tap your desk.  This cue is only known between the two of us.  This also did not work.  I have observed him in other situations like recess, latch key, and gym.  The behavior is never present.  Please give me any advice at all.  I do not want this child to think that it is bad to touch himself, but I want him to understand that in the classroom is not at all an appropriate time.  I also don't want to draw any more attention to it in the classroom. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

[Kevin Kennedy, Ph.D.]

Dear Kim,

You're making a good and sensitive attempt to help this boy manage this behavior. It looks like he's OK when he's actively or socially engaged, but when 'left to his own thoughts' he touches his genital area.

I totally endorse the steps you've taken thus far. In addition, I'd speak with his parents about the matter and see if you and them can collaborate around this. I wonder if they've noticed this at home as well, particularly when he's quietly occupied with some pursuit (e.g., viewing television). The behavior isn't necessarily a cause for alarm, but might be a sign of some worry/anxiety.

If you have a school-based counselor or mental health clinician, or have a relationship between the school and a local clinic, with the parents' approval it might help to have a consult with that person.