How to Help Parents Talk to Their Kids About Sex and Sexuality
As a parent, how do you talk to your kids about sex? If you read this and have a pang of anxiety run through your veins, you are not alone! It’s a tough question to approach, as it often comes with a myriad of emotions, thoughts, and feelings surrounding the topic.
The most effective way for these conversations to remain open and ongoing is for the parent to be able to control their own fear and anxiety around their child’s sexual development. This is something that can derail any conversation, but especially one that is as vulnerable as this. If you feel that this may be an issue, I would encourage you to work with a therapist on what regulating your own emotions can look like while these conversations take place.
During these conversations, it is vital that the parent is able to communicate how their child can protect their body and their heart during sexual development and to be open, nonjudgemental, and compassionate towards their child’s thoughts and questions around sex. The primary goal is that a relationship of trust and emotional safety is developed that allows your child to be vulnerable and honest with their sexual experiences during the formative years of their adolescence.
Remember, your child’s decisions are not necessarily a reflection of your parenting! As your child grows and develops, they will make their own choices with or without your input. If you are hoping to stay connected to your child as they begin to explore their sexuality, then coming from a place of empathy and understanding can be a great first step.
This Post Written By:
Grant Pooley, LAC – Journeys Counseling Center
6516 S. Rural Road, Suite 101
Tempe, Arizona 85283
Phone: (480) 656-0500
Email: grant@journeyscounselingaz.com
