The Importance of Sex Education with Our Kids
Parenting a teen is not always easy. Youth need adults who are there for them — especially parents who will connect with them, communicate with them, spend time with them, and show a genuine interest in them. Talking with your teen about sex-related topics, including healthy relationships and the prevention of HIV, other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), and pregnancy, is a positive parenting practice that has been widely researched and can have a life-changing impact on your teen.
What topics should parents discuss with their teens?It’s important that your conversations with your teen not focus just on the consequences of risky sexual behaviors. Many teens receive these messages in health education class or elsewhere. As a parent, you have the opportunity to have discussions with your teen about other related topics. You can
- Talk about healthy, respectful relationships.
- Communicate your own expectations for your teen about relationships and sex.
- Explain to boys and girls about mutual respect and boundaries, as well as the concept of affirmative/enthusiastic consent, where “yes means yes” would replace “no means no”.
- Focus on the benefits of protecting oneself from HIV, STDs, pregnancy and sexual assaults.
Join in for more guidance from Parkway professionals Psychologist Dr Vilia Lyell andGynecologist Dr Mariela Hochman.
