Your role is as a Health Professional & also as a Parent

Talking to your teen / or other teenagers about sex

Your role is as a Health Professional & also as a Parent

Sex is a staple of news, entertainment and advertising. It's often hard to avoid this ever-present topic. But when parents and children need to talk, it isn't always so easy.

So How to Break the ice

If you wait for the perfect moment, you might miss the best opportunities. Instead, think of sex education as an ongoing conversation. Here are some ideas (seven ) to help you get started — and keep the discussion going.

• Seize the moment. When a TV program or music video raises issues about responsible sexual behavior, use it as a springboard for discussion. If a good topic comes up at an inconvenient time, say you'd like to talk more about it later — then actually do so.
• Keep it low-key. Don't pressure your child to talk about sex. Simply start the subject when you're alone with your child. Sometimes everyday moments — such as riding in the car, putting away groceries or sharing a late-night snack — offer the best opportunities to talk.
• Be honest. If you're uncomfortable, say so — but explain that it's important to keep talking. If you don't know how to answer your child's questions, offer to find the answers or look them up together.
• Be direct. Clearly state your feelings about specific issues, Present the risks objectively, including emotional pain, sexually transmitted diseases and unplanned pregnancy.
• Consider your child's point of view. Don't lecture your child or rely on scare tactics to discourage sexual activity. Instead, listen carefully. Understand your child's pressures, challenges and concerns.
• Move beyond the facts. Your child needs accurate information about sex. But it's just as important to talk about feelings, attitudes and values. Examine questions of ethics and responsibility in the context of your personal or religious beliefs.
• Invite more discussion. Let your child know that it's OK to talk with you about sex whenever he or she has questions or concerns. Reward questions by saying , "I'm glad you came to me."