Sex

Magazines, newspapers, advertisements and TV programmes regularly use sex and sexuality in their story lines. Children and young people learn about sex from their family, from the media and each other. What gets passed on in the playground may not be accurate or what parents want them to hear!

All these messages may lead young people into situations they don’t know how to deal with. Adolescence is often seen as a time of heightened conflict between parents and children. This is a particularly important time to maintain communication with your children even though this may not always be easy.

Good communication with your children helps reduce risk taking behaviour. You might feel concerned that by discussing sex and relationships, particularly at an early age, you will encourage your children to start having sex when they’re very young. But research has proved that the opposite is true.

Teenagers from families who talk frankly about sex wait until they are older before they start having sex and they are more likely to use contraceptives. All young people need information about sex, sexually transmitted infections, HIV/Aids, pregnancy and contraception to help them make informed choices.

If you feel uncomfortable or unsure about talking about sex with your children don’t let this put you off. Sex education shouldn’t be a one-off talk but a gradual process of communication. If your children grow up knowing it’s okay to discuss sex and their feelings with you, then they’re much more likely to come to you for support when they need it.

Giving your children support, information and help to feel good about themselves can lessen the chances of rushing into sexual relationships too early, or unwanted pregnancy.

Young people will not always tell you if there is something that is worrying them. Good communication with your children is very important. You need to be attentive to their needs and let them know that you are there and be prepared to listen. It is important that your child knows where to get reliable information on birth control and prevention of sexually transmitted infections.

Talk to your children about relationships and sexuality. If you think your teenager is sexually active it is important to talk to them about practising safe sex.

It is important that your child has the knowledge and skills that will help them build self esteem and strong relationships while postponing sexual activity.