Get started: Some parents are afraid to talk with their teens about sex because they are afraid it will give them ideas or cause them to engage in early sex. Teens that have open communication with their parent tend to delay sexual activity and are more responsible. Remember, if parents don’t talk to their teens about sex, someone else will.

2. Knowledge is the key: Read books that provide accurate information as well as tips for talking with your teen about sex. Being informed builds confidence and helps overcome anxiousness that many parents feel.

3. Relax: If you feel uncomfortable talking with your teen, share this with your teen. They will appreciate your honesty. While as parents we might feel anxious about this type of conversation with your teen, having a teen pregnancy or sexually transmitted disease (STD) is far worse.

4. Keep the conversation going: Look for opportunities to have several short conversations with your teen, beginning in preteen years. Look for recent topics in the media to start the discussion.

5. Choose an appropriate location: Select a private area so you will feel more comfortable.

6. Talk about sexuality, not just sex: Provide accurate biological information to your teen, they need to know that a healthy sexual relationship entails, respect, caring and responsibility. Encourage them to remember that sex is only one component of a healthy relationship. Discuss the physical and emotional risks involved with becoming sexually active.

7. Discuss dating: Dating is a normal progression of teen adolescence. Discuss your own values with your teen to foster an open relationship. Suggestions to start the conversation: what age your teen can start to date, one-on-one dates or group dates, advice on how to behave on a date, where they are allowed to go and curfews.