by Jerry Harness

Created on: March 08, 2007   Last Updated: April 25, 2007

The classic birds and bees' sit down has changed considerably over the years. A hundred years ago, this type of sex education was given just before a couple became married. By the 1950s, the possibility of becoming sexually active prior to marriage became a greater concern, so parents began having this talk prior to the teen's first date. Yet, much has changed over the last 50 years. Sex is everywhere, from the big screen to comic books; and as a result, children are exposed to the concepts and dangers of sex much earlier. Dating too has change considerable, from chaperoned social events at the age of 18, to un-chaperoned trips to the movies as young as 10.

As a result, the classic sex talk' has nearly disappeared. Boys rarely, if ever, will ask their father for this kind of knowledge; and fathers taking their own initiative, usually simply ask them to be careful and hand them a pack of condoms. Additionally, girls will also refrain from bringing up the subject, as this usually sets off warning alarms in a parent; and instead of being provided with helpful answers, they're barraged with questioned concerning their activities or boyfriends.

Let's face the facts. When it comes to sex, many of the biological questions a child may have are usually addressed in school, with the physical aspects discussed and debated among friends. Yet schools, as a matter of principle, usually make no attempt at explaining the emotions associated with the act; while their friends are as clueless as they are. In reality, if a child is ever to broach the subject of sex with their parent, it will usually be long before they reach puberty. This is the moment that parents most fear and find the most uncomfortable, yet is not as difficult as it may seem; for although a parent might spend a great deal of time going into the biological or physical details, their time would be more wisely spent focusing on the social and emotional aspects of having sex; which is really what their child is asking about. When a child asks a question about sex, they are not looking an hour long explanation, which can be uncomfortable or embarrassing for everyone; but just a simple answer to a simple question. This type of low keyed, simple response will then become habit forming; and by the time they do reach puberty, they will be comfortable asking these kinds of questions; with their parents, and their future potential lovers as well.

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