Preparing Your Young Person

First, focus on why you think it’s important for them to learn this information. That might be because you want them to be healthy and know how to take care of their body, to have healthy relationships throughout their life, or that you wish you had this information when you were their age. You could tell them that this is important information for their health, just like how to brush their teeth, drive safely and other health skills you taught them. 

Second, acknowledge that this might be awkward or uncomfortable, but that’s okay. You’ll get through it together. You can make the awkwardness fun by setting a “safe word” when it gets too uncomfortable for either of you; there’s nothing like shouting, “Awkward!” to ease the tension. 

Lastly, ask them for help in deciding how to cover this material. Being flexible with the “how” can help them be more open to the “what.” Would they rather talk about one course or 3-4 courses at a time? Do they want a weekly schedule (like every Wednesday after dinner) so they can be emotionally prepared? Do you want to go over the Testing Understanding and Opening Conversation questions face-to-face, on a walk or in the car (often easier), or even via text?