'Mom, where did I come from?' 5 ways to answer this!

Very often parents are asked this question. Kids often doubt where they come from. While on one hand this question needs to be answered in an elaborate way, the elaborate answer involves several sensitive dimensions which are extremely difficult to be included in a brief answer and if not conveyed in a proper manner it might be construed in the wrong way.

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Therefore, when your kids come to you with a doubt of this kind, as a father or a mother it is your responsibility to clear the doubt in the most subtle manner.

A child’s mind is very curious. And a questioning mind is considered to be healthy. If your child is asking several questions, you should be happy about that.

Do not ignore the questions or do not get irritated by the questions.

Questions like “where did I come from” or “whom do you love more” or ``what is dad to you” should be dealt with properly instead of just dismissing them.

If you are a parent, by this time you must have understood that ignoring any type of question will invite more questions!

Therefore, do not pretend that you are not listening or simply do not dismiss the question. Kids can sense a lot from your body language and the way you speak. So do not make it weird for them and for you. Come straight to the point and answer it.

It will be difficult for you to explain everything related to a child's birth. As told before, if it is explained in an incorrect manner it will be interpreted in a wrong way.

Tell your child that every human being is made up of tiny particles called 'cells'. Mom and Dad have special cells which make a baby. The baby stays inside the mom's body in a special 'home' called the womb and when it is big enough to come out to the world, mom brings it out of the womb.

Please refrain from telling stories like "somebody came and placed you near me while I was sleeping".

Facts have always helped a curious mind.

Do not use random words like “miracle” “god gifted you to me” to address such an important question.

Using the correct scientific term, will help the child in understanding it better. It might also save you time and effort to remember the answer. A random answer can never be remembered and in case this discussion comes up again, your child may bombard you with several cross-questions.

So, be careful with what you say.

Simple terms like cells, womb are easier to understand and do not pose any risk. Kids have a tendency to imitate or repeat words. Hence, refrain from using words like sex, intercourse, penis, ovary, etc.

These specific biological terms can be used when the child grows up and is big enough to understand its importance.

Do not simply leave your child after submitting your explanation. Wait for a while and see if your child has more questions on this particular topic.

Always remember, the more you try to escape a child's curious questions, the more you will create doubts in his or her mind. It is very important to address the question.