4teenz has been developed by Open Doors Counselling and Educational Services as a source of information and support for young people aged from about 11 - 16.
Information is presented from a value base that promotes the healthiest option for young people, that of postponing sexual activity as a teenager.
As the parent of your child, your role is the most important one in this area. Your children learn from what you say and what you stay silent about. Staying silent sends a message that you are not prepared to talk about this topic with your child. Your child will look elsewhere for information and values, like friends, magazines and the internet. These other sources may not be accurate or present the values you feel comfortable with.
Parents need to establish a pattern of good communication about sex, right from the start. This is a vital part of helping your child avoid undue risk taking in later years.
When is “the right time” to talk about sex?
There is no right time, or right age.
It’s more a matter of responding in a natural way to the questions your children ask, from toddlerhood up.
Kids are full of questions about everything. Don’t let sex be the topic they learn not to ask you - their parent - about.
If you lay the groundwork when they are little, the element of embarrassment or hesitation can be overcome.
It has been said that the media – who loves your children the least – tells them the most about sex; while you – who love your children the most, often tell them the least…
Children learn best about sexuality when -
Give enough information to satisfy their curiosity. If they want to know more they will ask further questions.
If children ask at inappropriate times, or if you don’t know the answer, tell them you will get back to them on it – and always do so!
Look up information in a book together, or watch a dvd.
Your children and adolescents need to hear what your values about sex and relationships are.
This does not mean they will agree with you on all things! But bouncing their own opinions off a solid adult “wall” helps them refine their own developing value system.
Open up the line of communication early, before the issues get trickier, and before adolescent reticence sets in.
Censor inappropriate media content for young children and teens. Look for opportunities to discuss lyrics, tv shows, fashions, etc as they become older.
Check out what they are reading, viewing on the net, discussing in class, listening to on the radio.
“Young people with a strong sense of connectedness to family, school, church and community are more likely to postpone sexual involvement”
Resilient Kids – interactive CD ROM for primary and secondary ages
Teaching the skills of bouncing back from disappointment and preventing depression.
Counselling and Support Services for crisis pregnancy and pregnancy loss (including post abortion loss)
Educational Services for schools – resources, programs, presentations.
For more information visit www.opendoors.com.au or email info@opendoors.com.au
Need to talk?
if you are trying to make a choice and finding it difficult…
if you feel you may be at risk…
if you are affected by an abortion…
if you are having relationship difficulties...
……go to HELP on this website.