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The first thing that you have to realize is that no matter what you do this will be uncomfortable. Either for you, your child or both.

These days kids are exposed to a lot more sex than they ever were before. So most likely the child already knows quite a bit more than you might suspect.

I know that traditionally "the talk" is given in a bedroom with the door closed as if it is something that should not be heard by anyone else.

Closing that door though immediately causes problems. It tells your child before you've even begun talking that what you are about to talk about is taboo. From then on he or she will be scared to bring things up because it is such a scary topic.

Instead be open about it. I'm not saying break into a discussion about various positions at the dinner table as his 6 year old sister listens in. But just talk, don't make it "the talk" make it just a conversation.

Let him or her know that the feelings are normal, if he or she asks some weird question don't be shocked or chastise the child, instead answer as best you can.

Above all do not treat the child like a child, no birds and bees, just men and women.

You could try explaining how sex is something shared between people in love. It is the ultimate expression of love, don't cheapen it by having it too soon with the wrong person.

Of course on T.V. and in music and movies there is a lot of sex and some of it will contradict what you are trying to tell him or her. Explain that movies music and T.V. are for entertainment, not necessarily examples to live by.

Above all don't forget that you were that age to at one point. try to not make the child feel bad for thinking sexual thoughts, and likewise encourage the child to come to you if he or she has any more questions.

And do not think that your child is too young, they are bombarded by sexual images from a very young age and they grow up very quick. Teach them the proper meaning of sex before it is too late.

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