Encouraging healthy attitudes and behaviours towards sex

• Be open and honest. If you’re uncomfortable about an issue tell your teenager.
  If you’re unsure what to say or how to answer a question, tell them that you’ll see what you can find out.
  
  
• Discuss your own values and beliefs about sexuality. But make sure you talk about your experiences positively.
  
  
• Reassure them that what they’re feeling is absolutely normal and we all go through it.
  
  
• Discuss “What if…” scenarios with your teenager, such as “What would you do if a boy was pressuring you to have sex?”
  
  
• Respect their privacy.
  
  
• Be available. Let them know you will guide and support them. Be careful not to pressure them into telling you everything – only what they want to share with you.
  
  
• Make sure your teenager has accurate information about contraception and safe sex practices.
  
  
• Young people who talk with their families about sexuality and relationships are less likely to practice sex in unwise, unsafe or destructive ways.
  
  
• If your teenager is not asking questions about sex, it doesn’t mean you’re in the clear. It means it’s up to you to initiate the discussion.