For parents, the subject of ‘the birds and the bees’ can immediately put them in a state of fear and anxiety. If you feel that way, you should know that you’re not alone in this situation. However, you shouldn’t let your children grow up with the lack of information about sex.
With the outside world becoming hardly safe for adults and young children alike, sex education should certainly begin at home, and we’ve got a couple of ways for parents to approach this topic lightly.
1. Start Early
Most parents believe that sex talk is a topic most appropriate for children when they’re teenagers. While it’s not really wrong, but it’s preferable to talk to your kids about sex and sexuality when they’re kids.
Children at an early age are more open to learn anything that’s laid out in front of them, so start with the simple labeling of their anatomy. Just as you would teach your child to identify their ears and toes, do the same with their privates as well.
2. Listen and Discuss
Children’s minds are like little notebooks, where everyday, they’ll fill it up with new discoveries and ideas. As they often ask questions after the see something ‘new’, take the time to explain things about it. Sure they may not really understand it entirely, but make it as subtle and simple as possible. The best way to start is with the “how babies are made” topic.
3. Talk About the Opposite Sex
Don’t restrict your child from playing with kids of the opposite gender. At very young ages, kids generally do not notice genders, but they slowly begin to understand that everyone is different. As they begin to ask questions, it’s your opportunity to talk to them about the opposite sex, how they react, and more.
4. Discuss Family Values
This is especially important when you have a child who has just hit puberty. With media influence, sex and romance is now projected to mistake young teenagers how one should show their ‘love’. But do not be quick to assume since kids these days can be a lot smarter these days, so instead watch their favorite shows with them and understand what is being “taught”. If you have a daughter, make it clear that she should never be pressured into having sex and she is the only one in charge of her body.
5. Take it Easy
Don’t worry about getting every bit of detail about sex and sexuality correct. The whole idea is to make your children aware of their bodies and hopefully they can protect themselves from harm. As long as you make it clear that they can talk to you about anything without passing judgement or criticism, you’re doing a great job.
