How to Talk to Your Preteen Daughter About Sex

Preteens start to become very curious about sex.

Talking to your preteen daughter about sex can be a very unnerving experience for even the most gallant of parents. This fear can almost definitely be found in your preteen as well. It takes extreme courage from both the parent and the daughter to be open and honest about maturity and sexuality. In the event that a starting point is not easily visible, the best thing to do is to sit down with one another and just start talking.

Instructions

1. Make your preteen daughter feel comfortable and at ease by reassuring her that she's completely normal and that puberty is a stage that we all go through. Talk about puberty and sexuality in a positive light to encourage your daughter about her maturation. Share your own experiences that you went through during your pubic stage, especially the funny ones. Opening yourself up will encourage your preteen daughter to reciprocate.

2. Listen to your preteen daughter. Don't do all of the talking. Allow her to present any concerns or questions she may have. Show genuine interest for the issues she has regarding her maturity and sexuality. Patiently and honestly answer all the questions that you can. Explain to your daughter that the two of you can find answers together to questions that you may not be able to answer.

3. Find resources, via the Internet or your local library, to research on preteens, puberty and sexuality. Include your daughter by allowing her to do some of the research. Research topics on the reproductive system, hormones and all forms of sex. Continue to do research on additional topics such as birth control, contraceptives, sexually transmitted diseases, pregnancy and sexual orientation.

4. Teach your daughter more about sex when you see an opportune moment. Point out issues such as the AIDS epidemic, gay marriage issues, and the human papillomavirus. Discuss sexual displays that occur in movies, TV ads, or billboards. Continue to teach your preteen daughter by talking to her about healthy relationships and how to refrain from succumbing to peer pressure. Remind her that she is special just as she is and doesn't have to prove anything to anyone in order to be accepted.

References

• Parents Connect: Preteen Sex: Talking to Your Preteen About it
• Cornell Cooperative Extension: Talking to Your Pre-Teen About Sex
• Your Choice Now: Parent-Teen Discussion
• Good to Know: Family: Talking to Your Child about Puberty and Sex