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How to answer sex questions that children ask

TIMESOFINDIA.COM | Last updated on - Jan 5, 2023, 15:00 IST
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1/6

​Here’s how to answer sexual questions appropriately

It is past time for us as parents to recognise that discussing sex does not automatically result in a child having sex. Actually, the opposite is the case. The more frequently we discuss sex with our kids, the less likely they are to act out or be promiscuous. Therefore, the solution is to talk about sex often, but in an age-appropriate manner. Remember that sexual development begins the moment we are born, and approach the subject of sex in the same way you would teach someone to walk, eat, go to school, or take a shower to allay your fears and discomfort. Here’s how you can answer tough sex questions thrown your way:

2/6

​Do not shame or berate them

Don’t snap at your child if they ask where babies come from. It's crucial to be prepared to respond calmly and honestly, depending on the child's age, maturity, and preparation when they ask this specific question. Babies come from mommy's tummy, or babies come from mommy's uterus, in the simplest terms possible for a small child or an older child.

By not shaming them for difficult questions, you are instilling body confidence in your child at a young age. These kinds of queries are simpler to answer as children become older if you teach your daughter or son about her or his body and use the appropriate terminology when discussing changes to the body that occur with puberty.

3/6

​Avoid the internet and tell them yourself

Speak with your children so that they do not end up looking about sex on the internet. You know this can spiral into something very disturbing. When it comes to sex and safety, a smartphone is increasingly a topic of conversation. It is advised to wait until a child is at least 13 years old or has reached the necessary level of maturity before giving them a phone with internet connection. Instead, give your kids the information and self-assurance they need about sex. According to studies, this will influence their choices and shape their sexual destinies. The biology of sex must be explained to this age group; yes, you must discuss the vagina, penis, and intercourse as well as the upcoming changes in their bodies related to puberty.

4/6

​Insert sex positivity

Keep it simple and let the child ask you for more information if they want it rather than telling them everything you know about the subject. Being "too open" could be problematic. Instead of being the kind of parent who won't respond to queries at all (or in great detail). Tell the youngster that their inquiry was well-phrased and that it's okay to be curious. That way, you can at least introduce a small amount of sex positivity.

5/6

​Teach them how to be into relationships

This is a challenging but crucial subject. Please talk to your kids about relationship dynamics, sex, and sexual development. They pay attention. They are perplexed by it. It is ideal for them to learn as much as possible from you. Most victims of sexual assault are younger than 18 years old. Discuss safety, consent, and intervening when a peer is acting inappropriately toward someone. It's crucial to have this conversation with boys. Talk and explain about consent.

6/6

Guidelines for healthy sexual development of kids


  1. Teach kids to ask before they touch other people's bodies.
  2. Never make a child kiss or give a hug if they don't want to.
  3. Teach kids that the words "no" and "stop" are crucial.
  4. Permit kids to discuss their bodies in conversation
  5. During bath time, encourage kids to wash their own genitalia.
  6. Encourage children to discuss what feels satisfying and unpleasant (for example, "I don't like to be tickled").
  7. Don't make fun of kids for their friendships, label them as having crushes, or sexualize their actions (e.g., Oh, he likes you! Or Is that your girlfriend?)

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