Be a
    Prepared Parent

Information for Parents – Q and A

Not sure where to start? We’ve created this page to provide some basic information to parents who are wondering how to approach the issue of sex with their adolescents.

For other resources, such as books, CDs, and websites, visit our Resources page.

When should I start talking to my teen about sex?

While it may be difficult to talk to your teens about sexual issues, if your teen is like most teens, he or she WANTS to talk to you.  Your opinions and advice matter!  You are the biggest influence on your teen’s choices.

Click here for detailed information on when to talk to your kids about sex.

I’m worried about influences on the internet. What can I do?

Teen internet use is becoming more and more prevalent, and can bring with it a variety of dangers and influences. Here are some tips for parents on addressing the issues raised by teen internet use:

  • Familiarize yourself with the internet and internet technology
  • Place the computer in an area that will make monitoring easy
  • Review the addresses of your child’s old email, bookmarks and online history
  • Know your child’s password and screen name
  • For information on MySpace, check out www.mediafamily.org/online.

My teen receives sex ed. in school. I don’t see why I need to get involved.

As a parent, it is important to be involved in your teen’s education and make sure that they are learning the values and goals that you believe in. Talk to your teen about what they are learning in school, and let them know what you think. In addition to learning in sex ed. and health classes, teens will learn about sex from other teens at school. Studies have also shown that the second highest influence for teens, after their parents, is their friends. Make it a point to know your teen’s friends and their families.

For information on scheduling or attending a presentation, email Esther at esther@free-to-be.net.