For Parents
Teens get a lot of messages from TV, music, internet information, and their friends. Who better than a parent, who is knowledgeable and comfortable talking about sexuality, to provide healthy, positive messages?
Research shows that parents do influence their children's decisions about sex. Children who have a strong connection to their parents are more likely to postpone intercourse, have fewer sexual partners and use contraception consistently. Yet, research also shows that parents often underestimate the effectiveness of condoms for pregnancy and Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs).
Understanding and discussing sex and sexuality with your children can be daunting. But, with teen pregnancy rates and diseases, it is so important for parents to have the knowledge to raise sexually healthy children. Parents should communicate their values about sex, love and relationships early and often as well as recognize that young people want more than just the "body parts' conversation. Real life means real talk to ensure your child grows up sexually healthy.
PPAEO Workshops
Dannette McIntosh, Ed.D, AASECT and Tommy Chesbro, MHR offer workshops for groups and organizations. They will underline why it's so important to talk to children about sex and help adults become more comfortable with the topic.
Whether you are single or a couple, a grandparent or foster-parent this workshop will help you understand adolescent development and become more comfortable discussing the topic. Helping you to become more comfortable discussing sexuality issues is a key element in the process.
To set up a workshop call the PPAEO Education Department, 858-8440. Pass this information on to your friends and relatives with children.
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