Tips for Parents Talking to Their Children About Sexually Transmitted Disease

Parents find it hard discussing sexually transmitted diseases with their children. Before a parent can discuss the topic, they must be comfortable with their belief system, values and sexuality. The quality of parent-child relationships has an important influence on children's sexual behaviors.

The topic of sexually transmitted disease (STDs) should be started as soon as the parent observes the child getting, reading or seeing confusing or false information. If the child asks a question or if there is a 'teaching' moment, seize the opportunity. Younger children seek their parent's advice more than adolescents, who tend to depend more on their friends and the media. If your child ask the question, this give you the opportunity to provide your children with information that is accurate and reflects your personal values and principles.

Parent may not be able to wait for the children to "ask the question." All parents want their children to feel comfortable discussing all sensitive topics, but that may not happen. Start the communication as the parent. Don't think you have to cover every aspect at one time. Give the child as much information as he/she can handle, don't over load. Talk with the child at their level. Current events, news stories, music, television, or movie content are great avenues to bringing up STDs topics. If a trailer for a movie like Juno comes on TV, ask your child if what he/she thinks about the sexual behavior.

Hear, listen and ask for feedback. Be sure you understand what the child is saying and/or asking before responding. Give them the information "they are requesting", before you can give them the information "you want." If you hear from the child, "That's not what I said or you are not listening." Stop, take a moment, and say, "Did I hear you say....? Did I understand you correctly?" You need a sender and receiver to communicate. Ask questions that encourage children to share specific information about feelings, decisions, and actions. Essential for you to understand exactly what your children say, children feel they are heard, and their opinions matter, even when they differ from your own. Give kids a safe forum for asking questions and getting complete information.

Practice in front of a mirror, with your spouse, or with friends. Feel comfortable with talking about STDs. If you don't know the answers say so, and use the opportunity to research with your child.