We know that talking with your adolescent about sex can be difficult and uncomfortable.  For most parents, the difficulty comes in knowing how much to reveal to their children about sex and when (at what age for their child) to do it!  And some of the discomfort over this subject area may be from fears that you won't be able to answer every question.

That's okay!  Just begin the conversation!

The best situation for talking with your teen about sex and sexuality is to begin early (with simple topics like anatomy) and make it a continual conversation.  Sitting them down for one big "talk" may not be the best scenario for you or for them, but having lots of little dialogues about it will help take some of the mystery away.

One of the best ways to breach the subject is by using popular media.  While you're watching TV or a movie, or listening to the radio in the car, you might begin asking questions to find out how your child interprets the sexual language or images which pop up.  This can lead to talking about relationships, and so on--let the discussion grow from there!

If you are a parent and would like more information on how to talk to your child about sex, here are a couple of pamphlets which may be helpful:

1. A Parent's Guide to Talking to Teens About Sex
2. Talking with Your Youth about Abstinence

On Point also hopes to produce some helpful brochures of our own in the near future, so check back when you can!  Our goal is to help you impact the life of your teenager, toward a better and healthier future!  You are their most valuable person!