10 Top tips- advice for parents from children and young people on how to talk about sex and relationships
Two groups of young people in Sheffield -ranging from 10 - 16 had the following fantastic and helpful things to say to parents:
1. Don't wait for your children to ask you about sex and relationships. You have to take responsibility to start talking. Use TV, the soaps, magazines, newspaper headlines, family situations etc to start the conversation.
2. Always tell your children the truth in words and at a level they will understand. Don't fob thenm off or say "I'll tell you when I'm older"
3.Check out that your children have understood what you've talked about- ask questions and let them ask questions.
4.Don't get angry and don't think they are doing things just because they ask you questions.
5.Ask your children what their views are about things and let then have their own opinions - listen don't lecture.
6. It's great to use books and leaflets but always follow up with talking together.
7. Try not to get embarassed- if you do wait until you are home together to talk.
8.If you don't know something -be honest and say you don't know.
9. Stay calm and be understanding, supportive and relaxed.
10.Remeber children want their parents to talk with them - don't leave it up to school.
Taken from parent to parent and centre for HIV and sexual health, Sheffield.
www.sexualhealthsheffield.nhs.uk