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This is a very delicate topic that is best being handled in an honest, proactive manner. I speak out of personal experience with my child, who is nine. In today's world, sexuality is simply a mouse click away. Any parent who believes otherwise has not kept up with the times or the news. Browse Youtube, Facebook or other social networking sites. They try to filter porn and profanity, but it is still far from child-friendly. In today's society, sex is much too overrated. It is everywhere. Parents must keep a firm,proactive approach to helping their children deal with puberty and their sexual awakening. The parent who is open, honest and understanding will get great reviews from their child down the road. I will not lie. It is awkward the first time. Telling the whole story about where babies come from is complex. They find it confusing to link sex with romance, for example. The concepts can be a bit too abstract for children to understand. My most important trick about this discussion? A calm voice. You are going to scare your child off if you do not stay calm. You can not bury your head in the sand about this topic and hope it just goes away. Being open and proactive is the only true way to try to protect your child. Lines of communication have never been so key as they are right now.

My husband and I have already had some experience with our pre-teen. He notices changes about his body and asks us about them. Our first trick: Keep everything calm. A smooth, even tone to your voice does wonders. Remove any distractions from the room. Turn off the TV and cell phone. Your child wants to talk to you, so let them. The questions might be embarrassing, but remember, they do not know anything that is going on with their bodies. Keep your cool. To your child, this is curiosity. Trust me, you want to remain a safe haven for him or her to come back to if necessary. Our boy has come back to us with questions from time to time. We do not lie anymore. A stork did not leave him on the deck by the front door. Tell your child what they need to know now honestly. I guarantee they will find the truth from other sources. However, serious issues could possibly follow down the line as a result. Step up, Mom and Dad. You'll be glad you did.

Learn more about this author, Melissa Harlow.
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