Conversations with Owls Care
Let’s have a talk about The Talk. Starting the conversation with your student about safe sex might be a little uncomfortable at first, but it’s important to have these discussions! Sex education isn’t often taught in schools, and it plays a big role in your student’s safety and wellbeing. Students turn to their parents or guardians for valuable information and view them as one of the biggest influences in their life. By getting involved, opening up the conversation, and sharing your concerns, thoughts, and facts, you can help your student know that you want what’s best for them.
Here’s some tips on how to start your household heart-to-heart:
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Sometimes it’s easier to start in the middle of an everyday task! In the car, putting groceries away, walking the dog, all of these are good, casual times to bring up the topic.
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If it’s awkward, acknowledge it! It’s likely they’re feeling the same way - we’re not taught to be open about sex, and it’s okay to bring a little levity to the situation by being open.
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Be honest! If you don’t know the answer to something, offer to look it up with your student.
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Don’t push. Let them know that you’re there when they want to talk, or if they have any questions, but don’t force them into a conversation they’re uncomfortable with.
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Be direct, but consider your student’s point of view. State the facts, but recognize that things are never as simple as they seem. There’s a lot of pressures in a college student’s life, from social pressure to stress to the excitement of new experiences, which will all impact your student’s relationship and experience with sexuality.
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Facts are important, but so are feelings. It’s essential that you share medically accurate, sex-positive information, but it’s just as important to talk about feelings, attitudes, and values.
