It was definitely an uncomfortable conversation for me. Just saying the word 'sex' was sooo hard on radio. I was so conscious on parents who had kids in the car listening. Patience found it so hilarous
So this age group is so innocent and straight forward, they ask it as they see it, they do not mince their words. 'Mommy what is sex?' 'Where do babies come from?" "Mommy why do parents kiss?'These guys are the hardest to speak to and to also lie to because they will remember what you said. You also have to be sure not to say too much or too little. This is the first of many conversations you will have about this, so do it well. Here are some points:
1. Be honest. Explain in a way that you are able to build on the conversation as they grow. Do not be like Patience who suggested you tell them babies come from an egg and a seed, can you imagine what the children will be thinking when they see a tomato seed and or a sunflower seed, and they take an egg from the kitchen and try to make a baby??? No no no please...We did tease Patience on the show and one of our listeners even said that was a lame one...sorry Patience. Maybe say babies come from a mom and dad who are in love. Make sure you emphasise that a baby is made out of love and that it is not just something anyone can do any time.
2. Do not avoid the question. Answer the question and this will let your child know that they can ask you anything and anytime. You want to be their first preference for information and knowledge and that what you say is golden. This will avoid them being influenced by other children/parents/sources
3.Emphasise the importance of privacy. Your child should not see nudity as something that can be done anywhere around anyone. If your child walks in on you changing, do not scare them off and shout. Hopefully you would have spoken to them about noone seeing them naked, so you remind them of this and that they shouldnt see you naked as well
4. Follow up on some of your answers to make sure they have understood. This will make sure you have answered what your child was really asking and it will also et your child know that you were listening and they can trust you and they can come and ask you something again.
Its a tough discussion and it is not something you can escape from, but you can and MUST do it right!
I hope this has helped someone out there
Till next Monday
Stay Blessed
Tafi
#beingaparent
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