by Bhumika Ghimire

Created on: March 20, 2007   Last Updated: April 14, 2009

Do you remember the ruckus caused by the supposed "teen pregnancy pact" in a school in Massachusetts? Teen pregnancy is still a very emotional and politically charges subject in our society.

I was a teen not that long ago and though I managed to do alright. Now as a mother of a daughter I wish parents really follow these tips to prevent teen pregnancy.

1)Strong moral education.Teach your kids about moral and social values. If you want include religious teachings then go ahead. Tell them that it is not OK to have sex when you are a teen. That is the time to build your character, study and have fun with friends and family.Talking about values and morals does not make one old fashioned, instead it shows sophistication.

2) Don't worry that your kid will get mad at your for being so "old fashioned" about sex. It your duty to teach them and keep them safe. Do it. Don't try to be a friend, just be a good parent.

3) Teach them about sex and what it means to be sexually active. About sexual disease and yes about AIDS.They need to know that sex is risky business, if you are not careful.

4)Encourage healthy relationship and advise them on value of waiting until marriage. I know it sounds "so not like 21st century" but it still does make lot of sense.

5)Support them in times of need and give them confidence. Make them strong to resist peer pressure to experiment on sex.

6)Communicate, communicate and communicate. You cannot over emphasize communication.

7) Talk about health and social risks associated with teen pregnancy. Tell them how tough it is for teen mothers both socially economically.

8) Encourage their dreams of going to college, having a career. That way they will stay focused on their goals and will stay away from reckless behavior.

9)And now in spite of all your efforts you learn that your teen is having sex what do you do? Don't panic or treat them like an outcast. Talk to them and encourage them to be safe.

10) Be their support and listen to their concerns. Don't abandon them, remember they are still very immature and need your guidance.

I became a mother at 28 and found it overwhelming. I have a college degree, strong marriage, great husband and supportive family and still the first few months were horrible. It is hard to imagine how a teenager can handle pressures of motherhood, after all they are still children themselves. So parents please do all you can to keep your children from being pregnant when they are teenagers.

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