This will help prevent you from giving information your teen might not be ready for. Be sure to answer only the question your teen is asking. Listen carefully to your teen’s concerns and feelings, and respect views. Again, check out the resources at the bottom of this page for more information.
Be sure to find the answer and tell your teen later. Make sure you are dispelling myths about sex and sexually transmitted infections, and giving your teen the facts. Admitting it is awkward may make it more comfortable for both of you. It's OK to let your children know it makes you uncomfortable to discuss sex with them. Here are tips for talking with your teenager about sex. Finally, check out the Related resources below.
You can also get free information on many issues from Planned Parenthood. You also may want to ask your pastor or other spiritual adviser for guidance. To prepare yourself to answer your teen's questions, contact your local health department or speak with your physician.
Girls typically want information on health risks and communication in relationships. In general, boys are more interested in slang terms and intercourse. They include birth control, health risks, and communication in relationships. Older teens (10th grade) are more interested in other things. In general, younger teenagers (in about 7th grade) are concerned with puberty and physical changes to their body, the definition of slang terms, and intercourse. Regardless of what you say, be sure the information is age-appropriate. What to say about sexĭeciding what to say to your teen about sex is a personal decision. Parents need to share their values about sex with their children, because teens will also get information from other kids and the media. According to the Centers for Disease Control and the Guttmacher Institute, recent studies show that about one third of high school students have had sex, and 9% have had sex with four or more partners- this includes 3 percent who have had sex before age 13. It’s important to talk with your teen about sex. But we're in love: Talking to teens about sex