When Its Time To Give Your Teen The Next Level “Sex” Talk

How-to-Talk-With-Your-Teen-About-Sex

Ah, the sex talk. It’s uncomfortable. It’s awkward. And it’s totally necessary. If you want your teen to make healthy choices about sex, you’re going to need to have the talk. So here are some tips for making the conversation more comfortable and constructive – and, hopefully, a little less awkward.

Choose a time and location that allow for privacy and easy communication.

Getting your teen to talk about sex is hard enough, so make sure you bring up the subject when you both have ample privacy and enough time to let the conversation run its course. You want to ensure that you are able to discuss your family’s values and expectations and address any potential concerns, as well as give your teen the opportunity to ask questions and share his or her thoughts. So don’t strike up the conversation in the car on the way to practice; instead, opt to have the talk during a Saturday afternoon stroll through the park or a quiet dinner at home.

Acknowledge that talking about sex can be awkward and uncomfortable.

Don’t try to gloss over the conversation or act like it’s as easy as talking about who will make the playoffs this year. It’s going to be awkward – for both of you – so acknowledge that fact. Addressing it lets your teen know that what he or she is feeling is normal, and emphasizes the importance of talking about subjects even if they do make us uncomfortable.

Treat it like a conversation, not a lecture.

It’s a mistake to list of a series of “don’ts” when you have the talk. Be clear about what behaviors are acceptable, but don’t launch into a lecture. If you lecture, your teen will shut down and stop listening, and he or she certainly won’t feel comfortable enough to ask questions or share concerns. It’s best to pause throughout the conversation and invite your teen to weigh in or check to make sure you’re both on the same page.

Follow Up With Your Teen.

Sex is a complicated subject: teens are not only trying to gain an understanding of the physical and emotional aspects of sex – they’re also grappling with peer pressure and the process of becoming comfortable with their own sexuality. So don’t expect to have just one conversation. Your son or daughter may want to think about what you’ve discussed and address it again later, or may have questions as time goes on. So keep the lines of communication open by checking in after the talk and letting your teen know that you’re available to talk again.

A final note on the sex talk: it will be much easier for you and your teen if you have talked about sex throughout different stages of his or her childhood. Professionals recommend creating a dialogue with your child as they grow so you can educate, reassure and answer questions as he or she progresses to adolescence.

Request Free Admissions Information

Step 1 of 3 - Your Contact Info

Written by Natalie

23 Jun, 2015

Recent Posts

Finding The Right Therapeutic Schools For Teens

Finding The Right Therapeutic Schools For Teens

The decision to send a teenage son or daughter away for therapeutic treatment is one of the most difficult decisions a parent can face. It requires careful research and deliberation in order to ensure that the right setting and environment are chosen, with the best...

What Are Group Homes for Teens?

What Are Group Homes for Teens?

Group homes for teens have become an increasingly popular option for parents who are seeking a safe and secure environment in which their children can live, learn, and grow. In recent years, these group homes have been gaining popularity as they offer many benefits...

What Are The Best Programs For Troubled Teens?

What Are The Best Programs For Troubled Teens?

Troubled teens are often in need of special programs to help them cope with challenges and build life skills. The best programs for these youth should offer a safe environment, supportive mentors, and encouraging activities. Having the right resources available to...

How To Keep Teens From Exploring Sexting Apps

How To Keep Teens From Exploring Sexting Apps

Sexting has become a major issue among teenagers in recent years. With the rise of technology, explorative sexting apps have been developed to allow teens access to these activities without their parent’s knowledge or permission. As such, it is critical that parents...

Troubled Teen Bootcamp Benefits

Troubled Teen Bootcamp Benefits

The concept of boot camp for troubled teens has been around since the late 1980s when it was first introduced as an alternative to traditional juvenile justice methods. This type of program is designed to help young people who have struggled with issues such as...

What is ODD? How Can I Help My Teen?

What is ODD? How Can I Help My Teen?

The teenage years can be a difficult time, especially for those with Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD). As parents and caregivers, there is an inherent desire to help our teenagers through this period. Understanding what ODD is and the available treatments are key...

You May Also Like…

0 Comments

Submit a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *