Printer FriendlyTalking to Your Tween about Sexuality:
A Guide for Parents
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It's common to feel nervous about talking to your children about sexuality. Many parents feel uncomfortable because they grew up in an environment where the subject wasn't discussed, or because they worry that they won't have the right answers. These are common feelings. This guide will help you talk to your tween about sexuality.
Why should you talk to your tween about sexuality?
It's important that "tweens" (children aged 9-12) feel comfortable talking to their parents about sexuality, because research shows that children prefer to get information about sexuality from their parents. Research also shows that children who talk to their parents about sexuality are less likely to have early and unprotected sex. By talking to your tween about sexuality, you can help them develop values and healthy behaviors that may protect them from sexually transmitted infections and early pregnancy.
When should you begin talking to your tween about sexuality?
In general, you should start talking to your child about sexuality long before their body starts changing with puberty. For most children, the changes of puberty start by the age of 9 or 10. Remember that if your child is old enough to ask a question, then she/he is old enough to hear the correct answer and learn the accurate words for body parts.
Next: What your Tween Needs to Know |
Updated: 6/23/2011
