Know the Facts
Parents Say
“I feel like teaching our children the basics is our job as parents. I make sure my son knows he can come to either of us with any questions he has.”
Javier, father of
12-year-old Miguel
Explaining What Kids Need to Know
Both boys and girls need to know the basics. When we talk with our children, we can help them learn what to expect as they are growing up so they won’t be scared or surprised by the changes they’ll go through.
What kids need to know by the time they are 9 years old:
Male and female bodies
- How boys and girls grow and change.
- The new feelings that may come with these changes.
Periods and wet dreams
- What they are
- When they might happen and what to do.
Sex and pregnancy
- What sex is
- How babies are made
Keeping safe
- Saying no to touch that doesn’t feel right or is confusing
- Getting help right away.
What older kids and teens need to know:
Older kids and teens need to know about birth control, sexually transmitted infections, healthy relationships, and a whole variety of topics. It’s important to learn about these things and talk about them with our children. Don’t wait for them to ask.
You and your teen can find out more about these topics at www.teensource.org. Here are other places to look for information about talking with kids of any age about sex:
- Your local library or family planning clinic
- Book or video stores
- Special workshops offered at your children’s school or in your community
- Helpful websites on the internet
