Tips for Talking to Your Kids About Sex
Your Voice Matters
Did you know that teens name parents as the biggest influence on their decisions about sex?
Talking to your child about sex helps them make better decisions about relationships, sex, and reproductive health.
Most parents want to have these conversations with their tweens or teens, but they just don’t know how to get started. Explore this page for tips and resources.
Tips to Help You Get Ready to Talk
Admit that you feel awkward.
It’s ok to let your child know that you feel uncomfortable talking about sex. Being honest is the best way to start the talk.
Learn more from Planned Parenthood's "Talking About Sex and Relationships More Comfortably."
Use everyday moments to start the conversation.
Dating, love, and sex come up a lot – on social media, TV, or just in conversation. Use these moments to ask your teen how they feel about different situations. You’ll learn a lot.
Keep focused on the big picture.
Make it your goal is to keep the line of communication open. Teens who have a good relationships with their parents are more likely to talk to them about sex. Learn more from Planned Parenthood's "Talking About Sex, Helping Your Sexually Active Teen Be Safe"
Take the pressure off.
Be clear about your own values.
It’s not only about sex.
You'll have more than one chance at this. Don’t pressure yourself or your teen. It’s better to have these talks a little bit at a time, over a period of time.
If you want your child to wait to have sex, let them know. Help them by talking to them and building their self-esteem and confidence. For more tips, watch Planned Parenthood's "Talking About Sex, Helping Your Teenager Wait To Have Sex"
Talk to your child about how to be a good friend. The same things that make a friendship healthy -- like setting healthy boundaries -- apply to romantic relationships, too.
MAKE YOUR EXPECTATIONS CLEAR