1. Start teaching children when they are young. Around ages three to five, children will become curious about their body and body parts. Make sure you answer the questions they are asking. Keep it brief and don't give any more information than what they are asking for.
2. Use current events to bring up the discussion. These days there are many reality shows on television about teens getting pregnant. There are even celebrity teenagers that are having babies. Use these news items as a topic for discussion. Discuss with your child the effect teen pregnancy can have on them and their family.
3. Don't use yourself as an example. No child wants to hear about their parents sexual experiences, so try to take yourself out of the equation when explaining to your teen about sex. Make up names of people and situations. That way neither of you will feel uncomfortable if you are talking about other people.
4. Discuss the different types of sex. Your child needs to know the difference between oral sex and intercourse. That way they can be educated and protect themselves against potential STDs. Answer any questions your child may have and don't be embarrassed when talking to them. They may sense that you are uncomfortable and close up, not wanting to ask any more questions.
5. Use books and visual aids. Sometimes it can be difficult to discuss sex with your child. If you find you are having problems, try getting some books that will help better explain the process. There are many books out there that teach children about sex. Find one and go over it with your child so that you can make sure they understand it.
6. Talk about everything. Even topics you don't normally talk or think about, make sure you include them in the discussion. For example, a child may want to know about masturbation. They may even want to know what a sexual position is. If you show that you aren't afraid to discuss a certain topic with them, they may relax and come to you more often with problems or questions they may have.
7. Don't penalize your child. If your child has admitted they've had sexual encounters or have even been thinking about them, make sure you listen to them without reprimanding them. They then may not feel comfortable coming to you with any information. You can react to any information later on, when you are in private. Stay cool, calm and collected when talking with your child.
8. Educate about birth control. Make sure you inform your child of the various forms of birth control, and also how to use them properly. If your child is going to have sex, you want them to know how to keep themselves protected.
9. Teach them about anatomy. Through charts and pictures, teach your children the proper names of their body parts and where they are located on the body.
10. Be there for them. Let your child know that whatever happens, they can always come to you for advice and help. Let them know that you are willing to answer any questions they may have or assist them with any problems that arise. Get them to trust you, and don't break that trust. http://www.mademan.com/mm/10-tips-talking-your-kids-about-sex.html |
