How do I talk to my kids about sex?
Okay this may seem like a simple question but I’m nervous about talking to my kids about sex. I don’t know what to say or what not to say. I don’t want to give them too much information or make them feel awkward when talking to me about it. Do you have any suggestions on how I can approach this?
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I wouldn’t worry too much about what to say or not say….let them be your guide. I would recommend talking to them separately as what they *need* to know and will *want* to know will vary significantly by age and you don’t need to over inform the younger ones with the information being sought by the older ones.
Be factual and honest. Don’t use slang terms for body parts….talk about the male and female anatomy by it’s actual name just as you would discuss a leg or fingers or a hip.
Consider a trip to your local library, as well, as their are some great books out there to help explain what sex is to younger kids and it will be a great ice breaker into the discussion. One thing is for sure…if your kids are curious about it now and YOU don’t give them the answers, they’ll look for them elsewhere. And I don’t think you really want them seeking those answers from Billy at recess, do you?
Good luck!
Start by prepping them a little bit with little discussions here and there about the opposite sex etc. and then give them a little heads up so they can actually think about some of the questions they have. Gauge how much you share by their ability to handle it and their curiosity. Above all if they DO ask some shocking questions, don’t acted shocked but rather answer honestly with the information they need. Sometimes our kids hear things and get some funny ideas, it’s up to us to provide them with the truth and a comfortable place to talk about it when the time comes. Something which is super important to me personally is stressing use of protection. No matter what your views are on sex, be it abstinence or otherwise – your kids may opt out of those views and choose their own path. Make sure they know how to get access to protection should they choose to have sex. It’s always better to be safe than sorry and “oops” moments with sex can lead to life-altering consequences with no take-backs.