Ten tips for talking to your teen
- "Why are they kissing?" "Where do babies come from?" It's important to start early by answering your child's questions simply and keeping the conversation going as they get older
- Ask your child what they think so you know how much knowledge they already have. You can then give answers and advice that they can understand
- Talk about sex in the context of relationships and feelings, not just the biology
- Using everyday media such as soaps, adverts and magazines can help you to start conversations. Talking about other people is sometimes easier to start with
- Let your child know what you think and believe
- Discuss how important it is to consider the needs and feelings of people in relationships
- Ask your son or daughter what they think about waiting to have sex with someone they care about and discuss who will share the responsibility for contraception and safer sex
- Check with your child's school when sex and relationships are being taught, so that you can ask your child what they thought of the lessons to open up the conversation
- It is important to make conversations about sex and relationships a part of everyday life. Start a conversation in a relaxed atmosphere where you both feel comfortable
- Talk to other parents about how they answer difficult questions and how they feel about these issues. You can get local support in Medway by joining a Speakeasy course, or by using the parents' forum on this site
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