TALKING WITH PARENTS

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About Sex


News Flash!

Think you can only talk to your friends about tough topics like sex?

Think again!

Try talking to your parents to get the straight scoop. Studies show that kids who get their questions answered by adults in their life have less chance of getting pregnant or getting someone pregnant as teens.

Your parents may have things to say to you about sex, values and morals and may not know how to start the subject.

Someone has to make the first move. Why not you?

Talking the Talk: Kids and adults can learn to talk things out!

Ask these questions or others you have on your mind to get your conversation started.

Check off the approach that best describes your style.

The "To-The-Point" approach

"Can we talk? I have a question about something we learned in sex ed class."

"I think I am not developing as fast as my friends. Is something wrong with me?"

The "Round-About" approach

"Did you see that billboard about being a virgin? Should that stuff be in public where little kids can see it?"

"This talk show had some teens on who had babies and the girls were only 13 years old. Do you think teens can be good parents?"

The "Wonder If" approach

"I wonder if you think it is a good idea to learn about sex in school. Do you?"

"I wonder if kids will like me better if I do things they do even if I am not ready. What did you do when your friends did something you did not want to do?"

The "I've Heard That" approach

"I heard that lots of kids have had sex by high school. Is that just a rumor?"

"I've heard if you say no to sex, the person you like will break up with you. How do you say no to someone and not hurt their feelings?"

Still think talking to your parents will be too tough? Try these tips from kids your age!

  • Try writing your questions down and give your parents the note.
  • Read the question you wrote on paper out loud. That way you can hide your face behind the paper!
  • Talk to an empty chair, or your pet first or talk into the mirror to practice.
  • Make sure your little brother or sister is out of the house. You can't talk about serious stuff when someone else is listening.
  • Bring up the subject of sex when you and your mom or dad are watching a show where someone is wearing tight clothes or making out. Or if there is a soap opera on you'll have lots of opportunities then!
  • Print this out and leave it lying around. Your mom or dad just might get the hint!

"I was nervous to talk to my mom at first. You know, this stuff can be embarrassing. I just blurted out "Can we talk?" She said "Yes" right away. It was easier than I thought. Now my mom asks "Is there anything YOU want to talk about?" It's nice to know I CAN get my questions answered."

Source: www.cfoc.org
Related Issue:
What Parents Talk/Don't Talk About with their Kids, Talking with Kids about Anything, AIDS/HIV, Alcohol/Drugs, Violence

 
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