How to Talk About Where Babies Come From with Your Young Daughter

The topic of reproduction is a tough one to manage with young girls. They likely don't have a clear understanding of the physiology involved, nor do they have the emotional development to handle a complete truth. But you want to keep the door open for future conversations and respect their emerging, healthy sexual curiosity.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Provide only information with which you feel comfortable. Daughters are attuned to their parents and can sense when you're feeling stressed and uncomfortable. Since you want this to be the beginning of a conversation that will last over several years, take a break if you're starting to feel stressed.
2. Focus on the values that are true in your family or that you most want your child to emulate. The mechanics are the least important part of this early conversation. Make sure you're passing on to your daughter the environment and values in which you'd like to ultimately see a grandchild created.
3. Use these early talks to clearly communicate with your daughter. There is likely a reason that she is asking; either she's experiencing her first crush or she's confused by what she's hearing at school. If she's uncomfortable talking to you directly, have her write her concerns down and pass the paper to you.
4. Avoid judging or becoming defensive, angry or overly protective. This topic is not easy, but, if well handled, it can create a foundation for other topics as she matures. It's a natural and healthy step in your daughter's maturation process.

Tips & Warnings

• Be proud of yourself that your daughter trusts you enough that she's willing to ask this type of question.