Body Parts: What to Call Them

Level: Intermediate · Reading time: 3 minutes

Children learn the names of their body parts from the adults around them, and that includes you. In the UK, safeguarding organisations like the NSPCC recommend teaching children the correct names for all body parts, including their private parts. This article explains why, and gives you the words to use.

Everyday body parts

Young children love learning body parts through songs and games like Simon Says. Useful words include: head, face, eyes, ears, nose, mouth, teeth, tongue, neck, shoulders, arms, elbows, hands, fingers, tummy, back, bottom, legs, knees, feet, toes.

Tip: "tummy" is the word most British families use with children, instead of "stomach".

Private parts: use the correct names

Many families use "cute" nicknames for private parts. But UK safeguarding guidance encourages adults to use the correct words:

Body partWhat it is

penisthe boy's private part on the outside

testiclesthe two round parts under the penis

vulvathe girl's private area on the outside

vaginathe passage inside the body (this word is often used wrongly for the vulva)

bottomthe part you sit on (children can also learn anus for where poo comes out)

breasts / nippleson the chest

Why correct names matter

They help keep children safe. If a child is hurt or someone touches them inappropriately, they need clear words to tell an adult. A nickname can easily be misunderstood.

They help with health. A child can explain exactly where it hurts or itches, for example with a rash or an infection.

They teach that bodies are nothing to be embarrassed about. When you say these words calmly, like "elbow" or "knee", children learn that their bodies are normal and that they can talk about them.

Some parents may feel unsure about this. It's fine to talk to them about it and to follow the family's wishes, but you can gently mention that this is what UK safeguarding advice recommends.

The PANTS rule

The NSPCC's PANTS campaign helps adults teach children simple rules about their bodies. In short, it teaches children that:

their private parts are private

their body belongs to them

they can say no to touch they don't want

they should talk about secrets that upset them, because some secrets shouldn't be kept

they can speak up, and someone will help

Good practice for nannies

Talk children through personal care: "I'm going to wipe your bottom now." This teaches that touch should be explained and expected.

Encourage independence. As soon as children are able, let them wash their own private parts in the bath.

Respect privacy as children get older, for example closing the toilet door.

Stay calm if a young child touches their private parts. This is normal for young children. Gently say it's something we do in private.

Never ask a child to keep a secret from their parents. Use the word "surprise" for happy things, like a birthday present.

If a child tells you something worrying

Listen calmly and let them talk. Don't ask leading questions.

Tell them they did the right thing by telling you.

Don't promise to keep it a secret.

Write down exactly what they said as soon as you can.

Get advice straight away. Tell the parents, or if you're worried about someone in the home, contact your local council's children's services or the NSPCC helpline on 0808 800 5000. If a child is in immediate danger, call 999.

Useful phrases

"Your body belongs to you."

"Where does it hurt? Can you show me or tell me?"

"Would you like to wash your vulva yourself, or shall I help?"

"We don't keep secrets in this house, but we can have surprises!"