Talk with your Teen

Talking to teens can be difficult no matter the subject... throw talking about sex into the mix and things can get a little tricky. How can you help your teen to feel comfortable enough to talk openly? Here are a few suggestions:

Ask what your teen thinks about sexual situations on TV or in the movies when you have viewed it together. Those fictional situations can provide a springboard to talking about many risky behaviors.

Explain that the only 100% effective way to remain STD-free is abstinence from all sexual activity including intimate physical contact. It is often a misconception that condoms protect against all sexually transmitted diseases - this is not true.

Assure your teen that you are always available to talk. Remind them that friends may not always have correct information, and you will answer all their questions truthfully.

Keep the lines of communication open width your teen by spending one-on-one time with them. Going out for a simple dessert together can help to foster your relationship as you spend time chatting together. It matters to your teen that you are interested in what is going on in their life - even if they don't always show it.

Be prepared. When the conversation gets rolling, your teen might tell you shocking things about risky sexual behavior that is going on with other teens they know. Keep your cool and use this opportunity to explain the many dangers of sexually intimate relationships.

Some information taken from KidsHealth for Parents. June 2005.