Having “the talk” with your children
can be embarrassing, and awkward for both the parents and the child. However,
it is a necessity that pre-teens are informed with educational information that
will help them live a safe intimate life. Our society has many influences on
our children when it comes to sex, but regardless of the movies, reality shows,
or internet teens often say their parents have the biggest influence on the
decisions about sex. Teenagers that have this conversations with their parents
are more likely to post-pone sexual activities, have fewer sexual partners, and
have safe sex using protections and birth control.
Scenario:
Where: I would have the conversation
in a place where my child feels most comfortable, whether it be in the comfort
of our own home, or in the car where eye contact does not have to be made so
they don’t feel so awkward.
When: I would have “the talk” with my
children early on during the pre-teens years between the ages of 9-15 depending
on when I feel is the best time. It is best for a child to hear about sex, and
be able to openly talk about it before they hear it from their peers.
How: I would most likely have the conversation
after watching a movie, or TV show that had intimate relationships. Another
opportunity I would take if the subject of relationships were brought up.
“The
Talk”- People your age are experiencing big life changes right now. Many are
going through hormone changes and it sparks an interest in sex, and they are
curious what it is all about. I know this conversation might seem too soon, or
may be uncomfortable but I want you to understand that I am here for you to
talk to, and I am supportive of your decisions. You know that you can come to
me with any questions or concerns at any time in your life. I just want to be
the first to have the “birds and the bees” talk with you. Have you talked about
sex with your friends before, or have others brought up the topic? I want you
to know that sex is something that is sacred for the special someone that you
love, and there will be temptation all around but I would prefer you to wait.
Having sex is a big deal that comes with many risk such as emotions, pregnancy,
and sexual transmitted diseases. Many of this risk can affect your whole life,
which is why it is important that we have this talk, and you know that we can
continue this talk if other questions come up as you get older. If you do
decide to become sexually active I want you to let me know that way we can take
preventative actions such as the use of condoms, and discuss the option for birth
control to prevent you for having a baby at a young age. If you ever want to
browse around the topic on your own time I have find some reliable sources that
are appropriate for children your age. I wrote down the links for the websites
that you can visit:
Embrett, Cheryl. (2014, June 9). Age-by-age
guide to talking to kids about sex. Today’s Parent. Retrieved from http://www.todaysparent.com/family/parenting/age-by-age-guide-to-talking-to-kids-about-sex/
(2014). Talking to Kids about Sex and
Sexuality. Planned Parenthood. Retrieved from http://www.plannedparenthood.org/parents/talking-to-kids-about-sex-and-sexuality
