How to Talk to Your Child About Sex

While there are books available on the topic to help parents discuss the topic of sex with their children, it can be a very awkward conversation for some. Studies have shown that parents who discuss sex with their children, especially teens, have children who wait longer to have sex and use protection when doing so. This article will go over what specifics are important for a child to know, but keep in mind that what's most important is how you answer, not how much you know about the subject.

With a very young child you can start with the basics of pointing out their penis or vagina. With an eight year old you can explain hormones and how boys' voices get deeper and girls develop breasts. With a pre-teen the sex talk should include discussion of risks like unwanted pregnancy and how to protect them from sexually transmitted diseases.

Start with talking about your own values about sex. Though they may not adopt the same values, your words will remain in their head when they begin to struggle with the peer pressure to have sex.

Talk to your child about more than just the "birds and the bees", explain that sex also involves responsibility and caring. When your child is explained the emotional bond of a sexual relationship, they will hopefully resist peer pressure then they get older.

If you feel your child is old enough, talk about other forms of sexual activities like oral sex or masturbation. You can talk about different sexual orientations to include homosexuality, and bisexuality. Talk about self image and how choice of clothing can send the wrong message to the opposite sex. Also mention rape and how actions like drinking or getting high can put them at risk.

Movies with dating scenes can possibly be confusing for some children. In movies a man and woman meet, go on a date and then up in bed together. Dating is one part that many parents seem to overlook. Tell them that in real life it's ok to just hold hands and go to the movies, or that just talking is a healthy and important part of a caring relationship.

Most parents feel uncomfortable talking to the child of the opposite sex, but always do what is best for you and your child. Open discussion about sex enables the parent to provide more accurate information and that is important because facts they gather elsewhere may not match your personal values. If your child asks about sex but you are uncomfortable with a one-on-one chat, gather some books or other materials to help guide you. If nothing else, ask a close relative if they can have the sex talk with your child.

Article Resource: Stacie Kolberg