Is it finally time for that dreaded conversation about the birds and the bees? When is the right time to talk to your children about sex? How do you go about it? Well a good place to start might be our resource called Tips on How to Be An “Askable” Parent.

Here are some tips to help you get started on being an “askable” parent;

• Relax – Try to be casual and discuss sex or sexuality as you would other subjects.
• If you don’t know the answer, say so, but also promise to try to find out for your child.
• Take advantage of educational resources available to you, including books, pamphlets, and movies.
• Use “teachable moments” when watching a T.V. program, or books you are reading together.
• Try to answer questions when they are asked.

Conversations about the human body, puberty and sex can begin at a young age and continue right up until your child enters adulthood and beyond. Sexuality Throughout Childhood From Birth to Age 18  will outline what you may to expect from your children during the different stages of growth and development.

Your children will be exposed to sexual messaging starting at a very young age. These links provide you the facts about sexual health, but it is your responsibility as a parent to teach your children your family values around sex. Parents, GET EDUCATED and be prepared to answer those difficult questions when you are asked. Just a few of the topics you can learn about include;

• Your role as a parent
• Changes your child is going through
• Sexual Orientation
• Birth Control and Sexually Transmitted Infections
• Scenarios for Parents

If you have additional questions about sexual health education, don’t hesitate to contact a Public Health Nurse with the Sexual Health Program at 905-825-6000 or email us at sexualhealth@halton.ca . You can also refer to the Halton Region Health Department’s website and explore the entire section on sexual health.

Good Luck! And remember, you may not have all the right answers, but do your best to be an Askable Parent.

Share your experience:

For more tips and hints about sexual health, or to share your experience, there are many ways you can talk to one of us directly:

• Leave us a comment below – we’d love your feedback
• Talk to us on Twitter: @haltonparents
• Email us at haltonparents@halton.ca
• Call the HaltonParents line for parenting information or to speak directly to a Public Health Nurse (every Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) Simply dial 311 or 905-825-6000.

About this guest blogger:

Janet Dawson is a Public Health Nurse with the Sexual Health and Needle Exchange Program for the past 12 years.