I have three children, tow of them teenagers.

1, Develop an open honest relationship. Your kids should be able to tell you anything without being judged.

2, This one is great. Tell them the realities of pregnancy, stretch marks, weeing yourself, constant morning sickness and the one they never tell you about, weeing or poohing during labor. Thats the one that did it for my daughter!

3, Sex education. Make sure they know the facts, not the school yard myths.

4, Tell them about all the diseases they could catch if they don't use condoms.

5, If they have younger siblings ask them to babysit, they hate it. Then point out that if they got pregnant they'd have to do this every day for the next twenty years.

6, Go to the doctors to find about about all the latest options for contraception. Things have changed since we were teenagers so make sure you're up to date.

7, Tell them where to get free condoms, ie family planning clinic. If they are to embarrassed to go, go for them.

8, Explain that once their virginity is gone they can't get it back. Try to encourage them to wait as long as possible.

9, if you know any one with a new born baby, let your teenager change it's soiled nappy.

10, Tell them your too young to be a grand parent!

Learn more about this author, Jo.H.
Click here to send author comments or questions.

---

Add your voice

Know something about Ten tips for parents to help their children avoid teen pregnancy?
We want to hear your view. Write now!