THE ‘TALK’: 5 TOP TIPS FOR PARENTS

1 SEIZE THE MOMENT

Look for those occasions that might inspire a conversation about sex. For example, if the mother of one of their friends is expecting, you could ask: ‘Have you wondered how that baby got into her tummy?’

2 IT’S GOOD TO WALK AND TALK

Have the chat when you’re doing something else. Looking directly into someone’s eyes makes a conversation a lot more intense. Often the most fruitful and constructive conversations happen when we’re not focusing directly on each other. Try talking while you’re walking, driving or colouring a picture.

3 IT COULD BE A JOB FOR AUNTIE

The task doesn’t have to fall to a parent – it could be another responsible adult such as an aunt or a godparent. Older children often find it awkward to talk to their parents about the intimate parts of sex.

4 DON’T LOSE YOUR COOL

If something your child does shocks you, temper your reaction. If you find a used condom in your daughter’s bin, don’t shout. Tell her how proud you are that she is making sensible, safe decisions. This way, you reinforce the notion that you are a trusted source for advice.

5 YOU’RE IN IT FOR THE LONG HAUL

Keep the conversation going throughout childhood. This will make further, more complicated, conversations much easier. As your child matures, they will be set up to navigate the incredibly challenging online world that faces children of today.

Marina’s podcast, The Parent Hood, is available for free on iTunes. For more information about Emma Gleadhill’s talks, visit emmagleadhill.com