“Even the word ‘sex’ can provoke an uncomfortable reaction,” as famously noted by beloved TV show character Dr. Sheldon Cooper in the Big Bang Theory spin-off, Young Sheldon.
This reaction is common among both young people and adults. However, society has made significant strides since the 1980s—when Young Sheldon is set—in fostering open and honest conversations about sex.
This Let’s Talk Month, let’s embrace the opportunity to discuss the “birds and the bees.”
The Origins of Let’s Talk Month
The history of Let’s Talk Month began with National Family Sexuality Education Week (NFSEW), created by Dr. Sol Gordon, a sociology professor at Syracuse University.
Celebrated in October, this week focused on the importance of parents and kids talking about sex.
In 1985, the Adolescent Pregnancy Prevention Campaign in North Carolina began promoting NFSEW as Let’s Talk Month. With a catchy campaign, Let’s Talk Month was celebrated in over 30 states.
Here are some tips for parents and trusted adults to make these conversations easier:
- You don’t need to be an expert: It’s not necessary to be a sex expert to have meaningful discussions with children and teenagers.
- Be open and honest: Speak openly about sex to create a safe space for meaningful conversations.
- Be an “askable” adult: Be someone who accepts all questions and answers them honestly.
- Use media as a tool: Watch popular TV shows together to start conversations and help teenagers explore their own attitudes and beliefs.
Here are additional ways children and teens can have healthy conversations with adults about sex:
- Discuss media portrayals: Watch a movie or TV show depicting teen relationships. Discuss pressures, behavior changes and reactions with your parents or trusted adults.
- Identify dating values: List characteristics that are important to you in a partner.
- Read about sexuality: Explore books on sexuality.
- Engage in open dialogue: Talk with your parents or trusted adults about sex.
This Let’s Talk Month let’s come together to have open and honest conversations at home, in schools and with healthcare providers.
By building strong partnerships in our families and communities, we can help teens make healthy, value-based decisions about relationships and sex that align with their goals and dreams.
Let’s Start the Conversation
Don’t let the discomfort stop you from having important conversations. Whether you’re a parent, a trusted adult or a teenager, take the first step today. We have resources to make “the talk” easier.
