Children are often attracted by sexual topics on the
internet, through TV, in magazine and at school, and these sources are not
always provide an accurate or appropriate information for them. You are the
most reliable and the best source for your children about sex, body changing
and relationships, but almost all parents think talking about these topics is
inconvenient. Keep calm and know that your children are also confused and both
of you can overcome these things.
You are the most
reliable and the best source for your children about sex, body changing and
relationships.
Instructions
1. Find out by
yourself. There is much information outside, and your children hope the
truthful information from you. Prepare to use anatomically correct terminology,
give them plain and accurate facts about what happens during puberty.
2. Talk to your
children soon, before they notice hormonal changes in their bodies. Girls
usually start puberty between 8 and 13 years old; a boy may begin between 10
and 14. A girl may be frightened at the sight of blood when she begins her
period and a boy may be alarmed at his first wet dream. Give them information
in advance to help them feel free about the incoming things.
Talk
to your children before they notice hormonal changes in their bodies.
3. Explain as much
as possible. Talk about the changing of breast, menstruation and curves for
girls, muscle development and new hair growth in boys. Talk about changes in
genitalia, acne, body odor and sexual desire with children of both genders.
Emphasizing the importance of appropriate hygiene. Using anatomically correct
terminology helps you less embarrassing when talking to your children.
4. Question them.
Find out if they have any sexual desire, experiences or body changes before.
Ask if they have something to ask.
5. Answer them as
clearly and concisely as possible. If they ask you things you aren’t sure,
learn before answer them. You can say like “Good question. Let’s find out.”
Give your children a book about puberty.
6. Keep calm if
they tell you about their sexual feeling or experiences. 36 percent of seventh
and eighth grade kids have experimented with kissing, 12 percent participated
in fondling, and 4 percent had tried sex. Understand them. Don’t judge, just
talk about what you’re thinking about sex.
Keep
calm if they tell you about their sexual feeling or experiences.
7. Talk freely,
open communication with your children. Invite additional questions and offer
information often.
