Talking to Your Teen

It's not easy for most parents to have a conversation with their teen children about sexual matters. Here are several tips for parents from the nonprofit group Advocates for Youth:

• Make it clear early on that your child can talk to you about anything.

• Listen more than you talk. Think about what your child is asking you.

• Don't jump to conclusions. Just because your child asks you about sex doesn't mean your child is having sex.

• Answer questions with factual, honest, short and simple responses.

• Reassure your child that his or her thoughts and questions are normal.

• Teach your child how to make good decisions and discuss ways he or she can get out of a risky situation.