Talking About Sex Helps Children Make Healthy Decisions - Parenting Tips

Talking About Sex Helps Children Make Healthy Decisions

Talking openly with your kids about sex may be one of the most difficult things you do. However, the insight you provide may be more valuable to your children than you may think. It not only gives them information to help make healthy decisions regarding sex, but can provide the tools they need to prevent disastrous mistakes as well.

If talking with your kids about sex makes you uncomfortable,

consider these tips for overcoming your reluctance:

Talk with a counselor or other professional.
Read books or watch videotapes about ways to teach your kids about sexual issues.
Practice what you want to say.
Be honest with your child about your discomfort.
Approach the discussions with a sense of humor.
Answer your child's questions simply and directly.

Talking to your kids about sex may be difficult, but it is far better to learn from a parent than other kids, television, or experimentation. Help your child develop opinions that are shaped by your values and not by those of others.