Nursery World - A parent's guide to talking about sex and relationships

The earlier you start talking to your child about sex and relationships, the better. The easiest way is to answer questions your child asks simply and honestly. Short answers will usually suffice. You can also introduce your child to the topic at a moment you feel is appropriate through a play situation or looking at books together. Does television provide a bad influence?

Does television provide a bad influence?

It is always advisable to monitor the television programmes that very young children watch. In so doing, suitable opportunities should arise to talk about many aspects of relationships and sexual issues naturally. If children are exposed to 'soaps' on television, it is important that their parents or a responsible adult can discuss what is happening and help to put things into a perspective that the child can understand.

What should I do if my child is playing with his/her genitals?

Young children are not only exploring the world about them; they are also discovering their own bodies, and it is normal for them to pursue an activity that feels nice. Telling them it is wrong can give them a negative attitude to sex and/or their own body. It is better to explain that it is not something to be shared publicly but is okay in a private situation.

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