Role of the Parent

from: http://www.sexualityandu.ca/parents/role-1.aspx

You are your child's first source of information about sexuality, so you can play an important role in educating and guiding your child through childhood, adolescence and beyond. By no means do you have to be an expert, but it's important to:

• Break the subject of sexuality once in a while, according to your values and beliefs. Don't expect your child to come to you - they may feel too embarrassed to bring up sex issues with you, even if they have a problem they want to talk about.
• Use appropriate names for body parts.
• Answer questions honestly, your child will probably know if you're not being completely straight with them.
• If you just can't bring yourself to discussing sexuality with your child, ask for help from a knowledgeable ADULT or PROFESSIONAL whom you and your child trust and feel comfortable talking to. This "first step" may ease your discomfort and provide a way for you to follow-up later.