Ten Tips For Talking About The Facts Of Life (NAPSA)—-Whenparents talk to and affirm the value of their chudren, young people are more likely to develop positive, healthy attitudes about themselves. This is also true when the subject is sex. Research shows that positive communication between parents and their children can help young people establish imdividual values and make healthy decisions. According to Barbara Huherman, RNMEd., Director of Educa- Talking to teens about sexual- tion and Outreach for Advocates for Youth, parents who act on the belief that young people have the right to accurate sexuality infor- sible decisions. will delay the initiation of intimacy and use contraceptives when they choose to become sexually active. Initiating these conversations may be difficult for some parents because they did not grow up in directly. Give factual, honest, ity may help them make respon- 4. Don’t jump to conclusions. The fact that a teen asks about sex does not meanthey are having or thinking about having sex. 5. Answer questions simply and mation are parents whose teens tion by reassuring kids that they can talk to you about anything. 2. Take advantage of teachable moments. A friend’s pregnancy, short and simple answers. 6. Respect your child’s views. Share your thoughts and values and help your child express theirs. 7. Reassure young people that they are normal—as are their questions and thoughts. 8. Teach your children ways to make good decisions ahout sex and coach them on howte get out of risky situations. 9. Admit when you den’t know he answer to a question. Suggest the two of you find the answer together on the Internet or in the library. id. Discuss that at times your help start a conversation. 8.Listen more than you talk. Think about what you're being asked. Confirm with your child that what you heard is in fact what he or she meant to ask. talking with someone other than you. Together, think of other trusted adults with whomthey can talk. You ean learn more online at www.advocatesforyouth.org. an environment where the subject was discussed. Some parents may be afraid they do not know the right answers or feel confused about the proper amount of information to offer. To help, here are 16 tips from the experts at Advocates for Youth: L. First, encourage communica- news article, or a TV show can teen may feel more comfortable WRN AeA RR nn I Rn A RR in I A RR Ae RO 2 om Note to Editors: Octoberis Let’s Talk Month.
