Talking to your child about relationships and sex
Parents and guardians, as well as young people, can find it embarrassing and challenging to talk about sex - especially if you are unsure about how to approach the subject.
Having open and honest discussions about sex and relationships helps your child to recognise positive behaviours and protects and safeguards them when they are ready to explore sex and sexuality.
Talking to your child about sex does not mean they will go out and do it! Helping your child to learn about age appropriate sex and relationships means that they can be empowered to make more informed choices, and they are more likely to talk to you when they are concerned or worried.
Help your children get the most out of the internet
The National Crime Agency's CEOP Education Team aims to help protect children and young people from online child sexual abuse. Their latest campaign #AskTheAwkward explores how to talk to your secondary aged children about online relationships. As parents, we know these are not always easy topics to have conversations about.
Talking regularly with your child about relationships and sex can help develop shared understanding, trust, and support between you. This includes being aware of the positive opportunities technology provides for their social and romantic lives.
#AskTheAwkward has been created to help you to explore online relationships with your secondary aged children, making these conversations part of everyday life. Watch the films and find resources to help you start the conversation today! #AskTheAwkward.
More information can also be found on the Safe4me website.
Talk little. Talk often. Ask The Awkward.
Schools are able to decide how to teach RSE but there are guidelines saying that it should be age-appropriate and developmentally appropriate. It must be taught sensitively and inclusively, respecting the backgrounds and beliefs of pupils and parents. At the same time, it aims to provide pupils with the knowledge they need of the law.
Since September 2020, schools have been legally required to have their Relationship Education Policy available on their website. This outlines what that individual school will teach, when and how.
You can find a short two page guide with more information on what's being taught in primary and secondary schools.
Hampshire and Isle of Wight Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust Sexual Health Services have a range of support and signposting available.
We have regular free webinars for professionals as well as bespoke webinars exclusively for parents and carers. For more information on our webinars please visit our Webinars page
Other useful website resources:
Lucy Faithfull Foundation- Advice for parents
Lucy Faithfull Foundation- Are you concerned about a child/young person's sexual behaviour?
Lucy Faithfull Foundation - Pornography
Lucy Faithfull Foundation - Sharing Nudes and Sexual Selfies advice/support
CEOP - Parents - helping you better protect your children online
BISHUK- what to do if you find your kid is watching porn
BISHUK Parents- Masturbation for parents
BISHUK - Teach yourself sex ed (14+) also for parents
We’ve put together some links to websites that can provide information about sexual health, sex and relationships - to support you in your conversations.
RSE advice email
If you have a question about relationships and sex education and talking to your child or the young people you support, you can email us directly and securely at: snhs.