The Talk

A parent of an eight-year-old recently wanted to know at what age she should have “the talk.” I believe it’s never too early to have that conversation, but let them initiate it. Talk about it when they show interest. That’s how you know it’s time. There’s no great need for parents to bring it up before then. Of course, when they do, be sure it’s age appropriate. The point is this: if the subject is seen as natural and good – something they can discuss freely without shame or embarrassment – they won’t fill the need to go elsewhere for the information. Don’t tell them more than they want to know, or more than they can understand, but don’t shy away from telling them as much as they want to know, when they want to know it.