Teens & Relationships
Gulp: Planned Parenthood Newsletter
Read the Gulp! Talking With Your Kids About Sexuality Newsletter from Planned Parenthood.
Click on the attachments below to download an issue.
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Prom Night Tips for Parents
Prom night can be stressful for parents. These tips will help you ensure a safe, worry-free evening.
Tips for Parents
What can parents do? We hope you've been able to talk with your children about sexuality as they're been growing up. If not, start now. It's never too late! Here are some tips for discussing sexuality with your teen:
Seize the moment.
While doing a job together, or watching TV, talk to your child about a sexuality issue. Choose a night, choose a TV program, and watch with your child. Many of the TV scenes can lead to a good talk about sexuality.
Be alert to moments to teach.
As your teen's body is changing, use this chance to discuss the subject. An easy opener could be, "You are really growing up. One of the experiences you may soon have, or already have had, is..."
Ways to Communicate with Teens about Sex
Most parents feel nervous or unprepared to discuss sexuality with their teens. Here are some hints to help you talk with your child:
- Get the facts straight. Many good books can help you learn about adolescent sexuality.
- Don't be afraid to admit to yourself and your teen that you are not comfortable with the topic.
- If you don't know an answer to a question your teens asks, say so. No one knows all the answers about sex.
- Listen to yourself as well as to your children. When you talk to your teen, are you telling him/her your values or what you think is most important about sexuality?
- You and your child may disagree. Try to talk about a topic - not argue.
Why are teens sexually active?
Teens become sexually active for many reasons. They are experiencing changes in their bodies. For example, hormone levels cause breast development, hair growth, and the deepening of male voices. The hormonal changes may increase teens' sex drive, thus contributing to sexual activity. Teens are also beginning to seek greater independence. Teens are balancing parents' beliefs, peer group influences, media messages, body changes, and personal values.
Researchers studying teen sexuality have found:
- Teens who can't talk with their parents are more likely to have sex early, as well as start smoking and drinking early.
