When we are parents we talk continuously with our children about all kinds of topics, we teach them what are the colors, the names of the animals, how to behave and acquire manners… but generally there is a clear tendency to postpone issues related to sexuality.
At first, we see them too young to talk about it and then we think they are not ready, that when they grow a little more it will be easier because they will understand it better. The reality is that in many cases, those who are not prepared to discuss sexuality with children are parents.
On several occasions, patients and friends have asked me when to start talking about sexuality with our children and my answer is forceful: it is better to start talking to them in the first moments of childhood.
Children are innate curious to know the world around them and are close to them, in fact they are curious about the difference between boys and girls. Take advantage of this interest to teach them correctly the parts of the body as well as the doubts that arise. As they grow, their attention will be focused on acquiring more details such as where do the children come from? Or how did my little sister get into her belly? Use these periods to gradually instruct them and to learn that they can talk to you about these and other topics. Don't forget to adapt the conversations to each age of the child.
Sexuality is a very broad and important topic in the life of every human being that should not be left to chance, their education must be properly scheduled and explained, as it covers such important aspects as love and heartbreak, desire, human development, reproduction, pleasure, knowing what is a healthy relationship and which is a sick one, the risks of the internet and social networks, eroticism, the dangers of ets, masturbation…
As they grow, it is essential to illustrate them about the changes they will experience at puberty, both physical and psychological changes. It is a good time to talk about feelings with them, it is a very important part and they will be very confused.
If your children are entering or have already entered adolescence, they will certainly require your advice. You will have to talk to him / her about how to prevent sexually transmitted diseases (ets), pregnancies, risky behaviors, not give in to social pressure…
Some research shows that children are more sexually active than their parents imagine, so don't wait until it's too late to properly educate and inform them about sexuality, it 's your responsibility. Remember that the more information, the less risk.
If they have not yet addressed the issue of sexuality, you can get down to it today, but yes, do not try to give all the information at once in one day, this will only create more confusion. The most important thing is that you are very accessible to your child, speak without judgment. Understand that it is a delicate subject, and you cannot pretend that it opens up to you and overturns all your concerns in one day. He must feel that he has your trust and support before he is willing to share his concerns. Soon I will show you some practical tips on how to talk about sexuality with our teenage children.
