Tips for Parents
Nervous about having “The Talk”? Here’s some advice…
Timing is everything!
Begin Early. Don’t wait until your child is a teen! We recommend that you don’t think of it as one “big talk” but rather an ongoing conversation. This allows the conversation to continue and be more comfortable for you and your child.
Research has shown many girls are having sex by age 14 and guys as young as 12 in many areas even younger! (Michigan Department of Community Health). It’s more than “the talk” that helps your kids make decisions about sex. Ask them about their values and share yours. Tell them “I love you” everyday. They always desire that from you, even if they don’t act like it. Tell them your dating experiences, even if aren’t proud of some of the decisions you made. Your story might help your child from falling into the same trap.
Choose the right place!
Make it a special time with you child-whatever you do, make it private and personable!
Make a plan!
Don’t try to wing it! Know what basic points you want your child to know ahead of time. It may help to obtain some factual materials ahead of time. Facts on the issue change every year. Make sure you’re giving your teen the most correct and up-to-date info. Contact us if you need help with that.
Discussion starters often help. Feel free to discuss hot topics on the issue. A movie, magazine article, or other reference to the topic can be a great ice-breaker and discussion starter. The conversation doesn’t have to be awkward or super serious. Make it fun and interesting and make sure you don’t do all the talking. Ask your child what they’ve seen at school related to sex or risky behavior. You can even point out how someone is dressing provocatively and start there.
Speak your mind!
Remember to share your family values and religious values (if applicable). This helps your child understand that you have an expectation for them and you’re counting on them.
Remember the only 100% was to not get an STI or have an unplanned pregnancy is to be Sexually Abstinent!
Great websites for additional information
www.teenpregnancy.orgwww.pamstenzel.com
peerpositive.com
frontline4youth.com
missthemess.com
www.melodylovescd.com
P2 Social Media
The Buzz
"P2 is ingenious in its ability to connect with youth!”
- Pam Stenzel, nationally acclaimed abstinence speaker
"It has been a struggle enforcing the dress code at school. The P2 program showed that modesty with style is very possible.”
- School Staff Member
"No one ever told me I didn’t have to have sex. Thank you for telling me. I want to make some changes now. I don’t want to do that stuff anymore."
- Teen Audience Member
