Talking to your kids about sex can be intimidating, awkward, and sometimes even embarrassing for both parents and kids. It’s a conversation that needs to happen, but that doesn’t mean it’s an easy one to have.

In fact, some moms would do just about anything to avoid the talk altogether.

1. Have The “Birds and The Bees” Talk

One mother, Mary, says that she would rather talk to her children about the mechanics of sex than the emotional aspects. “I can handle teaching them about the mechanics of sex,” she says.

“But when it comes to talking about emotions, I’d rather not have to go there.”.

For some moms, like Samantha, talking to their kids about the importance of consent is the most important aspect of the sex talk.

“It’s not just about the act of sex,” she says, “it’s about understanding boundaries and respecting other people’s bodies.”.

3. Educate Them About STIs And Safe Sex Practices

Another common theme among moms is the importance of educating their children about sexually transmitted infections and how to practice safe sex. “I want my kids to know how to protect themselves,” says Melissa.

“It’s not just about pregnancy prevention.”.

4. Show Them Educational Videos

Some moms prefer to use educational videos or books to help facilitate the conversation. “I found a great video that really breaks down all the different aspects of sex,” says Ashley.

“It was a lot easier to start the conversation with that.”.

5. Address The Issue Of Pornography And Its Impacts

With the prevalence of pornography in our society, many moms feel it’s important to address its impact on relationships and sexual expectations. “I want my kids to understand that what they see in porn isn’t real,” says Jess.

“It’s important to talk about healthy sexual relationships.”.

6. Teach Them About Periods And Reproductive Health

For moms with daughters, talking about periods and reproductive health is an important part of the sex talk. “I want my daughter to understand her own body and how it works,” says Rachel. “It’s not just about sex.”.

7. Start Early And Keep The Conversation Going

Starting the conversation early and keeping it going over time is important for many moms. “I’ve been talking to my kids about sex since they were young,” says Michelle.

“It’s important to keep the conversation going and check in with them regularly.”.

8. Make It A Safe And Judgment-Free Zone

Creating a safe and judgment-free zone for the conversation is crucial for many moms. “I want my kids to feel comfortable coming to me with questions,” says Nicole.

“It’s important to make sure they know they won’t be judged or punished for asking.”.

9. Find Support From Other Moms

Getting support from other moms can be invaluable when it comes to having the sex talk with your kids. “I talked to a bunch of my mom friends before having the talk with my daughter,” says Kim.

“It helped me prepare and feel more confident.”.

10. Remember That It’s A Conversation, Not A Lecture

Above all, it’s important to remember that the sex talk is a conversation, not a lecture. “It’s important to listen to your kids and answer their questions,” says Dana.

“It’s not just about telling them what to do.”.