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Let's talk about sex

Let's talk about sex

You were young once and thinking about sex constantly. It can seem that there’s a lot more pressure for children to be in relationships at a younger age.

They grow up so fast these days

Children are certainly exposed to more sexual images than they used to be, and dress in an adult way at an earlier age. But just because they dress and talk in a more mature way doesn’t mean to say that they’re any more mature, or able to cope better, than we were at their age.

I always wished my dad had had that chat with me. I’m so glad I did it for my own kids.

The birds and the bees

Since your child is exposed to so much sexual imagery, you can’t just pretend it’s not there. After the age of ten, they’re going to grow up so quickly you might miss your chance. And when they hit puberty, you’re going to have a young adult on your hands. You will know when the time is right with your child, but don’t put it off.

Start early – certainly before puberty.
Respect your child’s privacy but don’t avoid things which will only make some topics uncomfortable.
Find out how much they understand – or misunderstand.
Talk about the importance of relationships.
Make sure they understand that sex has to be safe.

It’s really about relationships

With the focus on sex, it can be harder for a child to understand that what’s really at the heart of all this is relationships. Tell them that the sex and biology is just one part of it, and that it’s important that sex should not be split from feelings and its emotional content.

Your child grows and develops very quickly through puberty. Ignorance is not bliss – create a relationship with your child where communication is possible.

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Let's talk about sex

They grow up so fast these days

The birds and the bees

It’s really about relationships

Talking with your kids

Being there for your kids

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