Before secondary school
Regardless of whether they are sexually active, children need help making responsible choices about sex. Talking about sex doesn’t encourage sexual activity in children. Some studies have shown that talking openly about sex can actually prevent teenage pregnancy.The optimum time to discuss sex with your child is while they are still in primary school. Admit that talking about sex is awkward but also ensure that your child knows that they should never be afraid to ask you a question. Discussing sex with your child shouldn’t be a one-time five minute conversation but rather an open dialogue. As your child grows and matures, he will naturally have more questions.
 
Secondary school
As children enter their teenage years they will begin to have more interest in dating and feel more pressure to date. It’s also true that teenagers feel a lot of pressure to have sex even though they are not emotionally ready or mature enough. Help your child to understand that many teens decide to wait until they are a lot older to have sex.Talk to your child about healthy relationships and safe sex. Studies show that when parents talk to their children openly about sex, their children are more likely to be responsible in their sexual behaviour.
 
Defining sex
It's important not to assume that your child will know certain things about sex and sexuality. The reality is your child may know nothing or very little about sex. Start by explaining what the term ‘sexual intercourse’ means and continue from there. Your child needs to understand that sex does not simply refer to vaginal sexual intercourse.Oral sex is becoming increasingly common among children. Worryingly, many children do not consider oral sex the same as sex, but instead consider it a safe way to enjoy some of the benefits of vaginal sex without the risk of becoming pregnant or getting a bad reputation.
 
However, some children don’t realise that it is possible to get a sexually transmitted disease from having oral sex.
Parents should help their child to understand the risks of STDs and other possible implications from engaging in sexual activities. For example, they should understand the emotional aftermath that can result from having sex. 

Latest

Trending