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Many parents in the U.S feel that talking with their children about sex is important BUT they refrain because:

  1. They perceive their child as being too young or not ready to hear about it

  2. They do not know appropriate language to use in the discussion

Parent and child relationships

What could I discuss with my child?

Parents can significantly influence adolescent sexual health risk and risk

reduction

Parents who spend more physical time with their children typically have a more positive parent-child relationship.  These children are more likely to:  

  • have healthier sexual practices

  • delay initiation of first sexual experiences

 

These parents also feel more comfortable having conversations about sex and taking advantage of teachable moments. 

 

How to start the conversation

  • Typically parents feel more comfortable if they take time to study up on the topic prior to initiating the conversation to feel more prepared

  • Use moments from TV or real life as teachable moments to ease into the conversation

  • For teens, ask questions and use what they have been learning in their sexual education classes as a conversation starter

 

Always ask your child questions to gain a better understanding of how much they know!

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