Masterbation - 4 year old boy

I have a 4 year old son who has been touching his penis while looking at/touching someone's feet.  Is this normal?  We have been very open and verbal about him touching himself, that it is normal, and that he should do it in private, etc...  Several people have told us that they were suprised by this behavior.  Should we be concerned?  Thank you-

[Kevin Kennedy, Ph.D.]

There is no reason to be alarmed by his behavior, but do continue to establish a clear guideline about his touching himself. You are doing the right thing by insisting that the behavior must occur privately, never in the presence of other people. Really the only caution about masturbation in young children is when they are insecure and overly rely on the behavior to comfort themselves. This is not likely to occur if they are experiencing a normal range of activities, contact with peers and a satisfying life in the family.

[roma10]

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