Very often I receive the question from parents, “at what age should I have ‘the talk’ with my teen?”. My answer often causes mouths to drop and looks of confusion. I tell them, “my children are 2 and 4 years old and we are already teaching them about sex ed”. Then I explain, my children are aware of the correct names for their reproductive parts; a penis and a vagina. They also know that these are private areas and who is permitted to see and touch them. As they get older I will go into more detail, but for now that is all the sex ed that they need. There is no “right age” for the sex talk, instead it needs to be an ongoing conversation that starts very young. Conversations about our bodies, relationships, friendships, and then later on, sexual intercourse, STDs, and pregnancy prevention. Being open, and honest when your child has a question provides them with a feeling of safety and trust in you. Establishing this relationship at a young age makes it easier for them to continue to come to you as they approach adolescents and begin to be exposed to more difficult situations.
6 Tips for Talking to Your Teen about Sexuality HERE
The Talk
Jessie Moore, Sexual Education Director at Plan Parenthood