Little boys kissing

[Treo]

Is it normal for 5 yr. old boy to kiss another boy?  He has done this on several different occassion.  I feel bad after speaking to him because I clearly stated my position and how this was UNACCEPTABLE.  Please advise.


Disappointed & Confused Mom

[RockRose]

Do you know why he's doing it?  I agree,  that it's unacceptable,  for the reason that other little boys will start to avoid him and make fun of him.  

Is he just kind of overcome with affection,  and this is a spontaneous showing of caring,  or do you get the impression he's trying to be irritating,  (like boys who jab at other boys during quiet time,  or pluck their cub scout hats off and toss them,  etc.)  or is it something else?

[Treo]

I really do not know.  His father and I (as well as grandparents) do show alot of affection but I really thought we were within the norm.  It could be that he is trying to mimic his father and I or he could get caught up in his playing and thinks this is funny?  I really do not know.  I did speak to him more in detail as well as his father, but I am not sure if he fully understands.  I will cut back on the affection (hugging and kissing) to see if this will help.

Disappointed and Confused Mom

[RockRose]

Treo - I'm not sure cutting back on the affection you give him would be a good idea - he's still so little and thrives on hugs and kisses.

What he really does need to understand,  though,  is that kind of affection isn't welcomed by other boys.  He's old enough to understand that.  

[jd1419]

I have two little boys--they are 4 & 2 1/2--they kiss eachother--but we do tell them not everyone wants to be kissed and hugged--we have put it like this that little boys don't kiss boys.  WE have gone to doing high fives --something little guys like all the time.  

Don't hold back your hugs and kisses though--he may think you are really mad at him and don't love him anymore--that works in their minds.  Just let him know it is okay to give family kisses on the cheek (like papa's) and stuff--but no one else.  It is the same thing as teaching them what appropirate touching is and what is wrong.