Way To Teach Teenagers About Sexuality

Today’s children are exposed to sexual language and behaviours through many mediums even before they are fully ready and developed to deal with these. During a child’s formative years, the teenage years are important. This is a period of physical and emotional changes and teenagers experience an adolescent crisis that could impact their confidence or social skills. 

Imparting teenagers with sex education may not be as easy as it seems. It is more than educating them about the world of sex. Teenagers should be provided with an ideal and self-assuring platform where they can openly express themselves and get their doubts cleared. Furthermore, the easy availability of inaccurate information can have long-lasting effects. Sex education for teenagers is important and obtaining accurate information from reliable sources is preferable.

What is Sex Education?

Sex education involves imparting essential knowledge to children, teenagers and adults and empowering them to make healthy decisions about their sexual lives. Proper sex education helps individuals navigate relationships and manage their sexual health with confidence. It teaches a wide range of topics related to sex and sexuality.

As a parent, here is what you need to know before delivering sex education to your teenage child.

Get yourself ready

Getting adolescents and teenagers to learn and understand the subject of sex is not an easy task. Therefore, you should be ready to face challenges or many questions. Before starting to discuss the topic of sex with your child, consult with your partner and determine what messages you need to convey.

Grab the opportunity

When any medium mentions sex, make it an opportunity to discuss the topic with your teenage child(ren). It can help with a smooth entry into the topic and prevent making the conversation awkward.

Have frequent and early conversations

You must maintain frequent sex education with your teenage child. Occasional conversation can inhibit the flow of the discussion and make the situation awkward. Continue teaching your child through their adolescent years and early adulthood. However, ensure you modify the topics according to your child’s advancement and progress.

Think about your adolescent's viewpoint

Everything you educate your child regarding sex will be entirely new to them. So, pay close attention to their feelings and never let them give up. You should also consider their argument or point of view and never let them down. Always try to comprehend their worries and challenges.

Encourage further conversation

Let your teenager know that they can talk to you anytime regarding their concerns or uncertainties about sex.

Educating your child regarding sex can be awkward for you and embarrassing for the child, but it is okay. Try to work through your emotions; it can help you and your child. The more practice you get answering tough questions, the easier it becomes. 

What should parents be mindful of when teaching their teenagers about sex:

• Become accessible.
• Stay informal.
• When conversing with your teenagers, maintain eye contact.
• Keep in mind that sex education encompasses more than just sexual education.
• Never refer to private areas with pet names.
• Never try to avoid having awkward conversations.
• Avoid criticising or becoming irate.

Reference link 

• https://quikdr.com/healthtips/importance-of-sex-education-for-teenagers/
• https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/sexual-health/in-depth/sex-education/art-20044034
• https://parentandteen.com/help-parents-talk-comfortably-about-sex/
• https://www.cdc.gov/healthyyouth/protective/factsheets/talking_teens.htm

Books

The Yellow Book: A Parent’s Guide to Sexuality Education by Tarshi	By the Age Responses to Tough Questions Kids Ask Parents About Sex by Cath Hakanson	Sex Positive Talks to Have With Kids by Melissa Pintor Carnagey