Sex and Prom Night: How to Talk to Your Teenager

The prom is an event that is well known among all high school students. While the prom is a memorable night that includes wearing a beautiful dress, dinner, a wonderful date, and just having fun there are things that can make prom dangerous and disastrous.

It is important that many parents realize that sex may not exactly be what it was when they were in high school. There has been an increase in the number of high school students who are sexually active. Students who want to have sex with their boyfriend or girlfriend will likely find a time and a place to do it; however, prom is a popular occasion where sex is discussed and even occurs. If you are a parent of a high school student it is likely that you have discussed sex before with your child, but before their prom night you may wish to discuss it again.

Regardless of whether or not you have had the sex talk with your teenager before, you need to know that they will likely not be excited to have the conversation. Some children automatically think that their parents are tying to butt into their lives and others may just feel uncomfortable discussing sex with their parents. It is even quite possible that you are nervous discussing sex and prom night with your child, but it is something that should be done.

To begin a conversation with sex and prom night you may want to consider asking your child what their plans are directly after the prom. There are many high schools that host after-prom parties. These parties are often hosted at a safe location with a large number of chaperones. While it cannot be guaranteed, the chances of sexual activity occurring at an after-prom party are slim. If your child is not planning on going to an after-prom party or their school is not hosting one you may want to consider offering alternatives.

When asking your child about their intended activities after the prom if you end up getting a response like hanging out you may want to be concerned. Sexual pressures can occur even if there is only your child and his or her date present; however, the pressure is elevated when additional teenagers are around. If your child is planning on going to a private party at another household or they are not giving you a straight answer as to where they will be going after the prom you may want to establish some ground rules. If you are interested in preventing your child and their date from going to a private party or a hotel room you may want to consider inviting them back to your home where you may be able to keep a watchful eye.

As a parent you may know that your child does not always listen to you or take your advice. If you are still unsure of what your child's plans are after the prom or you know that they plan to engage in sexual activity you should encourage your child to be safe. There are a number of birth control options that you may want to discuss with your child before the prom. Not all children have sex on prom night, but it is something that many teenagers at least think about. While it may be weird discussing birth control with your teenager it is better than them not being aware of all of their options.