Sex education in puberty: tips for parents
Sex education takes place consciously – and unconsciously – in many moments of everyday life, from an early age. In this article you will find out why sex education is so important for the development of your child and which tips will help you.
Sex education includes more than “just” the subject of sexual intercourse. Sex education teaches body awareness, dealing with feelings and respect for private boundaries – from childhood on.
In addition to conversations, physical hygiene, movement games and cuddling moments also help your child to develop a good feeling for their own body. Sexual education gives him the necessary knowledge and words to make himself understood. These are important qualities that can protect it from sexual assault .
Even if many foundations are laid earlier, sex education also plays a major role during puberty . Enlightened young people deal responsibly with their sexuality and feel better prepared for the many physical and emotional changes.
But what is the best way to approach your children’s sex education? We have put together some useful tips that will help you.
Tips for sex education
- Sex education then and now: How did it work in your parental home? How was sexuality, body and partnership talked about? What would you have wished for and what would you do the same way? A look at your own sex education will help you to reflect on behavior and communication patterns and to change them if necessary.
- Sex education in clear words: “coitus” or “making love”? Not so easy to find the right words. Young people want clear language from their parents – not too technical, not too youthful and without moral lectures. It is understandable that your own inhibitions get in the way. It often helps to start by simply admitting: “I’m a bit embarrassed too, but it’s important that we talk about it.” This is how you signal to your child that they can also talk to you about sex at any time.
- Sex education takes place “incidentally”: Experts consider “the” sex education talk to be outdated. Everyday life offers many occasions where sex education can happen casually. A TV report or events in a circle of acquaintances offer concrete examples that can be combined with conversations about sex, love and the body. It’s nice when things aren’t always dead serious. In a relaxed atmosphere, young people often find it easier to address intimate issues.
Find the right contact
There are many reasons why an open conversation about sexuality sometimes just doesn’t materialize. Then it can be helpful to involve other contacts in sex education.
- Intimate problems are easier for some young people to resolve when they are faced with a trusted but neutral person, such as their godfather or big sister.
- Have brochures, books, and reliable internet sources ready. They offer your child a lot of information that they can explore independently and in peace.
- Questions about the body, contraception and diseases are answered objectively and competently by specialists. Encourage your child to find out more from a gynecologist or urologist.
- Advice centers – for example from pro familia – can also help with concerns and questions.