Tip: How to talk to your teen about sexuality

Teenagers learn from observing the people around them. Parents are the key role models of how to be men and women, have relationships, show affections, and resolve conflicts.

By making sexuality an open subject in your home, you teach youth that sexuality is a natural, real part of life and it is okay to talk about. If you choose to be silent, your youth will pick up information on sexuality from the internet, the media, advertising, and their peers without being able to understand what they are being exposed to through healthy discussions with you.

 

Here are some steps to help you to talk to your teenager about sexuality:

1. Get a game plan - before the subject comes up, have a clear understanding of the messages you want to give. Choose a time when you are both comfortable and have time to talk.


2. Know what values you want to be a part of your family culture - share your beliefs. Encourage your son or daughter to set his or her own limits that are consistent with the values of the family.


3. Listen - if they feel heard, they will listen to you.


4. Talk about the facts and more - talk about relationships, decision-making, alternatives to sexual intercourse, contraception, safer sex, and sexual orientation.


5. It is okay not to have all the answers - be able to say to your teen, "That's a good question. I need to think about that and get back to you."


6. Get ready to blush and laugh - don't be afraid to say that you are embarrassed or uncomfortable. Use your sense of humour.

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