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How to Have “The Talk” With Your Parents

CollageCenter • Nov 07, 2016

It might be uncomfortable to talk to your parent(s) about sex, but research shows that teens who talk to their parents about sex are less likely to become pregnant or contract an STD. With that in mind, you still may wonder how do you even start a conversation about sex?


Consider these tips for having “The Talk” with your parents:

  • Know what you want out of the conversation. Do you want advice about a specific situation? Do you want support and reassurance? Do you want medical information? Do you want some answers for questions you have about birth control? Ask specifically for what you want.


  • Choose a time when you can be relaxed and not feel hurried.


  • Find a place that offers some privacy and minimizes distractions.


  • Start with an icebreaker.
  • Ask an easy question first, then work your way up to the more awkward things – “When did you start dating?”
  • Mention a scene from a movie or a magazine article – “In a movie I saw last week, this character talked about ____, what does that mean?”
  • Tell about something your health teacher or the school nurse taught your class – “Our school nurse said we could ask her questions, but I’m too embarrassed. Can I ask you?”


  • Admit you are uncomfortable – “I’m really nervous about this, but I want to talk to you.”


  • Write down any questions you have before you talk. Maybe handing your parent(s) an index card with a question will be less intimidating for you. At the very least, if your nervous brain goes completely blank, you’ll have notes to help you know what to say.


  • End by asking if you can talk more later or ask more questions as they come up. “The Talk” doesn’t have to be a one-time deal. It can be an ongoing, open conversation that will feel a bit less weird each time. And more times than not, your parent(s) will see this as a step of maturity.



What if you really can’t talk to your parents about sex? The Collage team is here to help answer any questions you have and offer support and encouragement. Please give us a call at (308) 234-9880 in Kearney or (308) 675-2217 in Grand Island.

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