Having The Dreaded Conversation: Talking To Your Kids About Stds

When all anyone thought they had to worry about was pregnancy, talking about sex with our children was easier. With the chronic and deadly diseases on the loose, it’s more important than ever to make sure your kids understand about STDs and how to prevent them.

Many parents find the idea of talking to their kids about sex to be embarrassing and awkward, but making the assumption that your kids will learn everything they need to know about sex, pregnancy and STDs at school and on television.

Talk to your kids about sex, make sure they understand the risks of STDs, pregnancy and stay open minded and willing to help if they need you

Parents who refuse to talk to their children about sex may be setting their children up for some serious problems and health complications down the road. That being said, I would suggest that you set aside your insecurities and embarrassment and do what a good parent should do; take care of your kids!

This may sound shocking to you, but the best time to begin having the sex conversation with your kids is between the ages of 3 and 5, which is when most kids start talking about body parts. Be careful not to give them too much information or more information than they are ready to hear.

Avoid referring to body parts of made-up or “pet” names. Don’t say things like “down there” or “that place”. This may leave your child feeling confused.

Use movies, stories and other things that are going on in the world to help you talk about the things you need to make your child aware of. If your child sees a pregnant woman on TV and inquires about her condition, use this opportunity to explain what’s happening in her body. Children can relate to things that they’re interested in. For example, when 16-year-old Jamie Lynn Spears, star of TV show Zoey 101, announced that she was leaving the show because she was pregnant, explain to your child that the actress who plays Zoey had sexual intercourse and as a result was pregnant and could not continue on with your child’s favorite TV show.

Don’t make this too much of a negative, however. It’s important that your child understands that there are consequences to actions, but don’t make out like Jamie Lynn Spears is being punished.

Avoid using yourself as an example. Instead, use made-up or generic examples.

At this age, it is not appropriate to be speaking with your child about oral sex. When the time is right, explain what oral sex is, but make sure your child understands about STDs and that oral sex is still not 100 % safe. Above all, remain reassuring. Do not make your children too uncomfortable, but be open to answering their questions and don’t overwhelm them with information.

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Having The Dreaded Conversation: Talking To Your Kids About Stds

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