Toddler behaviors: the toddler who prefers to be naked

Yes, toddler behaviors can be interesting and challenging—like those who prefer to be naked—at home and in public. Recently, a reader of the 411 book series I co-author emailed a question about her daughter undressing and refusing to put clothes on. I thought I’d share the question and response here in hopes that that the advice might help you, too!

Thank you for your useful books. (I read Baby 411 and am now on Toddler 411.) I couldn’t find anything in your books about the situation I’m going through with my 3 year old. About a month ago she started to undress completely and run around naked, refusing to put on clothes. She becomes hysterical when I make any attempt.

What should I do?

Lady GodivaAh yes, Lady Godiva. There are some toddlers who like to be naked. Actually, we do give a nod to this behavior in Toddler 411—so know that it is common and you are not alone. The solution…allow her to have naked time for a certain period of time and in a certain location. This validates her need to be in charge and in control.

Obviously, the location needs to be in your own home. Maybe her room becomes her “naked room” so she is not invited to prance around the kitchen or family room and when her naked time is done, she can come back and rejoin the family.

The message this sends is that if she needs alone time, she can be in her room. When she puts her clothes back on, she gets to have company. It makes this a natural consequence for the behavior. She learns it is acceptable to be naked but that it is not acceptable to be naked in front of the family eating dinner and it is not acceptable to be naked going to preschool or the mall!

Good luck.

Ari Brown, MD

Have a question for the expert? Ask us on Facebook or Twitter (@411Pediatrics).

Similar Posts

Study Sheds Light On Introducing Gluten

ByAva Gallagher, MD

Pizza and chicken tenders are regular treats in children’s diets. But, for kids diagnosed with celiac disease, these gluten-saturated foods can cause harmful effects. Eating gluten — even just one cookie — causes an immune system reaction that can prevent the body from absorbing important nutrients. The good news is that there are more resources available…

Kids & Fever: When to Worry, When to Stay Calm

ByAri Brown, MD

As much as you try to wash your kid’s hands, it’s inevitable…your little one will get a fever. The questions I’m most often asked from parents: How should we measure a fever? When should we call the doctor? I recently shared tips with the Austin American-Statesman and thought I’d pass them on to you. How should a…