1. Start the conversation early!
2. Use real names of body parts, versus pretend names.
3. Teach them your family values about sex.
4. If you are too nervous, seek the advice of your pediatrician or a child psychologist to give you resources to start the conversation.
5. Check out your local library or bookstore for some great books to talk to your kids about sex.
6. Talk to your kids about the dangers of sexting, Internet predators, and consequences of their behaviors.
7. Do not wait for the “right” time. There will never be a “perfect” time, so start the conversation ASAP!

For more tips, check out Dr. Hammond’s “The Talk: Sex Answers for Every Age” in the Jan 2014 issue of Tampa Bay Parenting Magazine.