Talking to Kids and Teens About Sex and Consent

This Complex Life

As a parent or guardian, talking to kids and teens about sex, consent, and relationships can feel overwhelming, especially if these topics were never discussed in your own upbringing. In this solo episode, I delve into the common questions I receive from parents about how to navigate these essential conversations.

From the basics of when to start talking about sex to the importance of consent and respect, I share practical tips and insights to help you feel more confident and prepared. Whether you're raising little ones or navigating the teenage years, it's never too late to start these discussions and create a safe space for open communication.

Key Takeaways

• Start Early: Begin conversations about bodies, privacy, and consent from a young age, gradually building on these topics as your child grows.
• Be Honest and Age-Appropriate: Answer questions truthfully while keeping the information suitable for your child’s developmental stage.
• Normalise the Conversation: Use everyday moments, like TV shows or real-life situations, to naturally introduce topics related to sex and relationships.
• Respect Boundaries: Teach your children about the importance of personal boundaries and consent, and model this behaviour in your daily interactions.
• Lead by Example: Show your kids what healthy communication and respect look like by practising these values yourself.
• Stay Calm and Open: Approach these conversations without judgement or criticism, and encourage your child to ask questions whenever they need to.
• Use Reputable Resources: Direct your children to trustworthy sources of information if they’re hesitant to talk directly with you, and ensure they understand how to evaluate the reliability of what they find online.

Other relevant episodes

https://marievakakis.com.au/why-doesnt-my-teen-listen-to-me-anymore/

Resources

• Raising Children Network: Trusted advice on talking to kids about sex and relationships.
• Scarleteen: Inclusive and comprehensive resources for teens on sex, sexuality, and relationships.

Feel free to reach out with your questions or share your thoughts with me about this episode—I’m here to help you navigate this important part of parenting!

Connect with Marie

https://thetherapyhub.com.au/

https://marievakakis.com.au/

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