NCJ Number
182994
Date Published
1999
Length
40 pages
Annotation
This booklet describes techniques for talking with children ages 8 to 12 about sex, HIV/AIDS, violence, drugs and alcohol.
Abstract
Ten suggestions on how to talk to kids about anything include: (1) Start early; (2) Initiate conversations, using simple, short words and straightforward explanations; (3) Talk with them even about subjects that may make you uneasy, such as sex and relationships; (4) Create an open environment; (5) Communicate your values; (6) Listen to the child and take his or her feelings into account; (7) Try to be honest; (8) Be patient, which allows children to think at their own pace and lets them know they are worthy of the listener’s time; (9) Use everyday opportunities to talk, don’t wait for formal discussions, which kids may interpret as just another lecture from mom and dad; and (10) Talk about the subjects again and again and answer repeated questions no matter how often a youngster asks them. The booklet contains separate chapters on speaking with kids about sex and relationships, HIV/AIDS, violence and alcohol and drugs. It includes organizations for further information, readings for parents and readings for children.