Note: this advice should not be used as a substitute for medical opinion or treatment. If illness or pain are suspected, always consult with a doctor. For more information about this approach to parenting, see Dr. Solter's books: The Aware Baby, Helping Young Children Flourish, Tears and Tantrums, and Raising Drug-Free Kids.

Question:

I'm looking for literature to help me prepare for "the talk" with my nine-year-old daughter. Everything I read says it needs to come from me, and that it will come up. Well, it hasn't come up, and I don't want her information coming from the kids on the school bus. Thanks.

Answer:

When you say "the talk" it is not clear whether you mean a discussion about menstruation or about sexuality. I will assume that you mean both.

It is a mistake to think that everything about puberty, love, sexuality, reproduction, birth control, and sexual orientation can all be explained to a child in one single talk. A far better approach, in my opinion, is to make use of "teachable moments." If there is a pregnancy in the family, or something in the news about pregnancy and birth (such as the birth of quadruplets, a new birth control method, or a controversy about abortion), those are excellent times to bring up the subject of sexuality. It's okay to present the information in bits and pieces. You do not need to explain everything all at once.

One way to begin is to ask your daughter how much she already knows. She might know more than you think. Perhaps you can say: "Did you see this picture in the paper of the quadruplets? Do you know how that can happen?" Then listen to her, and add the information she is lacking. This can lead to a discussion of sexuality. Perhaps she knows that a "seed" from the father joins with a "seed" from the mother, but doesn't know how the "seeds" get together. A brief description of sexual intercourse can be a part of such a discussion. (The word "seed" is actually not a good one to use. It is better to use correct physiological terms right from the start, such as sperm and egg, penis, vagina, etc.)

The discussion can also begin with a talk about bodies and sex differences. Ideally, this should begin as early as age two or three. Seeing siblings, friends, or parents naked is a good way to let children learn about differences between males and females. Girls need to be encouraged to become familiar with their own bodies, and to know what various orifices are for. It is a good idea for mothers to casually mention menstruation to their daughters from time to time, beginning when the girls are little, so that they know this is a part of being female. (It doesn't hurt to let boys know about this as well.) If you have not yet discussed menstruation with your daughter, do not wait any longer. Some girls are now starting their periods as early as age nine.

Another good way to start a discussion about these topics is to read a book to your daughter about puberty, sexuality, and reproduction. There are many excellent books for pre-teens and their parents to read together.

After you have read a book with your child, do not assume that you have completed her sex education. There is always more to learn and discuss. You can read additional books together, and continue to make use of "teachable moments" as she grows older (as described above). Bring up the subject from time to time, and feel free to share your own values with your child. Encourage her to think about controversial issues. Don't wait for your daughter to ask questions. Children need and want to know their parents' opinions on these matters, but often don't dare ask. If you feel embarrassed while discussing these things, tell her so, but don't let that stop you. The subject is far too important to ignore.

Copyright © 1998, 2003 by Aletha Solter

The Aware Parenting Institute

This page was created on November 10, 2003. Last updated on April 14, 2009.