Should I be worried that my 7 year old has developed several (more than 6) new moles at one time? They are on both arms and legs.

Dear sbaker, I can understand your concern. As a mother of two I went through a similar experience with my daughter when she was about 8 years old. Overnight she woke up with several moles along her arms. Alhtough I was not concerned with cancer because they did not meet the four symptoms they look for in skin cancer; asymmetry, border, color and diameter, I had her pediatrician look at them. I learned that sudden appearance of moles is very common among children, but your mother instint is correct and you should have the doctor evaluate them. I do not think a biopsy will be needed but if you cannot get an earlier appointment, make sure you monitor any changes such as rapid growth, changes in shape, etc. If this happens, try a walk-in urgent care center if you cannot get a sooner appointment from the regular pediatrician.

sbaker, thanks so much for writing. According to the American Academy of Dermatology "Moles on a young child’s skin are generally nothing to worry about. It is normal for new moles to appear during childhood and adolescence."

And the occurrence has been a common enough one that EmpowHer has received questions on it. You may want to find it helpful to read the expert analysis of
Is it normal for a mole to just suddenly appear on your skin?

For further information, you may want to check out the AAD's Web site, especially this section which deals specifically with childhood moles.

And if it feels like you're waiting too long to see your doctor, you may want to sign up as a back up in case there's a cancellation or see if your doctor can make a recommendation for another doctor who can see you and your child sooner. I've had good luck myself by being a backup for cancellations.

Please be sure to update us on what you find out.