How To Be An Askable Adult
Parents remain an important source of sexuality information for their children.
Though youth report less formal sexuality education (from schools, community centers, church, etc…) they consistently report (at least 70%) talking with a parent about at least one sexual health topic.1
It can be quite awkward to have these conversations, whether it be protecting young children from unwanted touch or preparing teens for puberty or dating. Our parent sessions aim to equip parents with information, skills, and comfort needed to discuss different sexuality topics with their children.
Research shows that positive communication between parents and their children can help young people make healthy decisions. Parents who act on the belief that young people have the right to accurate sexuality information are parents whose kids will delay sex and use contraceptives when they choose to become sexually active.2
We provide training and one-on-one consultations for parents on talking with children and teens about topics such as: family values and expectations; media awareness; answering difficult questions regarding sex and sexuality; and being an 'askable' adult.
Throughout parent sessions, our educators will help you:
-
Clarify and teach your family’s values
-
What kids should know and when
-
Identify tips and suggestions for starting the conversation
-
Answer difficult questions with more comfort
"Great!! Thoughtful and Helpful." -Parent Participant
If you would like to arrange a workshop please contact us at [email protected].
Some books we love to help navigate these conversations:
-
Raising a Child Responsibly in a Sexually Permissive World by Sol Gordon and Judith Gordon
-
Beyond the Big Talk: A Parent’s Guide to Raising Sexually Healthy Teens by Debra Haffner
-
So Sexy So Soon by Diane Levin and Jean Kilbourne
-
Sex & Sensibility: The Thinking Parent's Guide to Talking Sense About Sex by Deborah M. Roffman
-
Talk to Me First: Everything You Need to Know to Become Your Kids' "Go-To" Person about Sex by Deborah Roffman
1. Lindberg et al., “Changes in Adolescents’ Receipt of Sex Education, 2006-2013.” Journal of Adolescent Health (2016), 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2016.02.004.
2. Huberman, B. (2008). Parents Sex Ed Center. Retrieved from http://www.advocatesforyouth.org/parents-sex-ed-center-home