Looking into the innocent face of your fourth-grader, its hard to imagine ever talking about the sperm and egg. Many parents feel awkward and inadequate when it comes to sharing sexuality information and moral values with their children.
Thankfully, today there are number of resources available to help parents talk to their kids about purity, sex and reproduction.
The most important thing to remember is that you are the expert. No one cares about your child or his future the way you do. Research confirms that parents are the best prevention children have against alcohol, drugs and premarital sex.
Parents who convey clear messages when discouraging risky behaviors are more likely to have children who will avoid compromising situations. The key is to stay connected with your child and consistent in the messages you deliver.
Strategies for effective communication:
Amy Stephens
Amy Stephens is founder and director of Fresh Ideas
Communication & Consulting. Amy spent 10 years at Focus on the Family,
serving as manager of the youth culture department and the abstinence
education division.
