Communication is the number one way to keeping your pre-teen and teen happy and healthy. Talking to your pre-teen and teen will open doors for both of you and strengthen your relationship. Start communicating with your pre-teen and teen about the life issues they are facing. We know it can be hard to make time to talk with your son or daughter. That’s very true if you have to work a lot. But do the best you can. Give your son or daughter as much of your time as you can. Remember it’s not just talking. It’s being available for you pre-teen, or teen. One other thing, when you see your children do something right, tell them. They’ll be more likely to do it again.
Parent’s
Let’s Talk!! Parent’s/Guardian’s start talking with your pre-teen or teen about abstinence, sex, and sexually transmitted diseases. Yeah, it may feel a little uncomfortable, but it is better to hear and discuss this topic with YOU! Here are a few tips to help you start the talk:
- Take advantage of teachable moments. When you are riding car or watching TV and the word sex is heard, use that to begin talking.
- Be honest. If you are uncomfortable, tell your teen, BUT it is important to keep on talking. Tell your teen your feelings and values regarding abstinence and sex.
- Listen to your teen. Consider the teen’s point of view, understanding the pressures and challenges teens face today. Ask them questions to help them understand what your teen is thinking.
- Tell them the facts.
- Keep talking. Tell your teen you are open to talk at any time about sex if they have questions. Reward them when they talk by saying “I’m glad you came to me.”
Remember, PARENTS/GUARDIANS you are the most important sexuality educator for your pre-teen or teen. You do not have to be an expert to have a meaningful conversation. Below are some additional resources to help you. Keep talking.
Here are some helpful links from HealthyChildren.org
- Talking to Your Children About Sex
- Next Stop Adulthood: Tips for Parents
- Making Healthy Decisions About Sex
- Dating and Sex
Teen’s
Let’s Talk!!! Girls and Guys, it time to get the facts. There are so many untrue stories about sex and sexually transmitted disease. We want to make sure you get the facts. Below are a few resources to get the facts on Abstinence, Sexually Transmitted Diseases, and HIV. Another excellent resource is your parents.
If you feel you can’t talk to your parent or guardian and would like to submit an anonymous question to a health professional about your Body’s Development, Sex, Sex-Related Diseases/Infections (STDs/STIs), Stress or Depression, Drugs or Alcohol, or a variety of other health-related issues, click here: Submit an Anonymous Question to a Health Professional.. You do not have to provide your name or contact information. Or, if you prefer, you may text your question toll-free to: (270) 681-0638.
Here are some helpful links from HealthyChildren.org and TeenHealth.org
- Making Healthy Decisions About Sex
- Abstinence
- Sexually Transmitted Diseases/Infections (STDs/STIs)
- About STDs/STIs
- Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)
Health Educators are strategically housed in each local health department to mobilize communities toward healthier choices. Click your county on the map to contact your Health Educator for questions about our programs and services.