Youths are exposed to sexual messages every dayβon the TV, on the internet, in movies, in magazines, and in music. Sex in the media is so common that you might think teens today already know all they need to about sex. They may even claim to "know it all," so sex is something you just don't talk about. Unfortunately, only a small amount of what is seen in the media shows healthy sexual behavior or gives correct information.
Your teen needs a reliable, honest source to turn to for answers, and the best source is you. You may feel uneasy when talking with your teen about sex, but your guidance is important. Beyond the basic facts about sex, your teen needs to learn from you about your family values and beliefs. This needs to be an ongoing discussion and not just one "big talk. Here is information from the American Academy of Pediatrics to help you talk with your teen about this important and sensitive subject.
You are the best person to teach your teen about sex, relationships, love, commitment, and respect, both through discussion and by your own example. Parents often fear that if they talk about sex, their teen may want to try it. Teens are curious about sex, whether you talk with them about it or not. Studies show that teens whose parents talk openly about sex are actually more responsible in their sexual behavior.
Your guidance is important. It will help your teen make better-informed decisions about sex. Teens who don't have the facts about sex and look to friends and the media for answers are the most likely to get into trouble, such as getting sexually transmitted infections STIs or becoming pregnant. Talking about sex should begin when your children first ask questions like "Where do babies come from? Studies show that children who learn about sex from friends or through a program at school, instead of their parents, are more likely to have sex before marriage.
Teens who openly discuss sex with their parents are sexually active at a later age than those who don't. Communication between parents and teens is very important. Your teen may not share the same values as you, but that possibility shouldn't stop you from talking about sex and sexuality. Before children reach their early teen years, they should know about.
