It helps to build on topics that they raise themselves – for example, if they bring up the subject of condoms, stress the importance of them and ensure that they know where they can get them, how to use them and why they should remember to use them every time they have sex in order to limit the risk of infection. Though it may be difficult at times, you should reassure your child that they can speak to you about any issue by not becoming surprised or argumentative if they say something you weren’t expecting – criticism won’t help you develop an open and communicative relationship with them.
Embarking on a lengthy conversation about sex and all it encapsulates is not the way to go about making this easy for either one of you. Smaller chats about various topics relating to sexual activity is better, as it helps you to broach the subjects more easily and means that you can bring the topics up in and around everyday life, such as whilst doing the washing up or watching TV. Listen to what your child is saying and try to be as non-judgmental as possible, so that they feel they can open up to you in future.
Another way to help your teenager have as much information as they need on the subject of sex is to find out what their school is teaching them. Once you know what they’re learning about, you’ll know how fill in the gaps more effectively. You’ll also be more aware of their initiatives for other aspects of the topic, such as how they deal with homophobic bullying and their teachings on STIs.