Preventing Teenage Pregnancy Starts at Home
Talking to your children about sex and pregnancy is often a very awkward subject. However, it is important that parents are the first sources of information. This will equip teens with the necessary know how to be able to make responsible and informed decisions in order to be able to enjoy their lives to the fullest.
Talking to your children about sex and pregnancy is often a very awkward subject. However, it is important that parents are the first sources of information. This will equip teens with the necessary know how to be able to make responsible and informed decisions in order to be able to enjoy their lives to the fullest.
Know How to Listen
Be involved in your teen’s life. Preventing teenage pregnancy is all about knowing what your teen needs to be able to make a responsible, informed decision. Ask them how their day was and be a good listener. Be approachable so that they come to you when they are having problems. Get involved in your teen’s interests and establish an open line between them.
Set Reasonable Boundaries
Only 12% of teens say that friends are more reliable when it comes to sex and birth control. You have the power to set boundaries for preventing teenage pregnancy.
Encourage sports and other worthwhile hobbies in order to lessen the focus on early serious dating. Give them a reason to abstain. Most girls refrain from having sex because of the moral values that were taught to them.
Tell them why it is important to use protection if they do decide to have sex. Give them a reasonable curfew and a fair set of rules.
Dare to Dream
Preventing teenage pregnancy is a two way street. You will also have to show responsibility in handling your own relationships so that your child has a good basis on what acceptable behavior is.
Build your child’s confidence and encourage them to dream. Find out what they want to achieve in their lives and show them support. Give them an idea of how good life can be if they make the responsible choice today instead of being a teen parent.
Posted on June 6, 2010 by admin