Your Questions about Talking to Kids About Sex, Consent, and Safety, Answered

Parents sent in smart, honest questions about how to keep conversations about sex, consent, and safety going at home. In this Q&A episode of Thriving Kids , Dr. Dave Anderson from the Child Mind Institute answers questions about when to start, what’s age-appropriate, and how to talk about everything from consent to porn — without losing your kid’s trust. You’ll learn how to: • Start early with body boundaries and accurate language • Talk about consent in everyday life • Handle porn exposure and online curiosity • Balance privacy, safety, and your family’s values • Keep the door open even when teens roll their eyes Key topics • What age to start talking about sex and consent • How to explain the biology of reproduction without euphemisms • Setting boundaries and modeling consent in daily life • Talking about porn and online exposure without shame • Balancing privacy and safety with teens in relationships • How to share family values without sounding preachy • What to do if your teen is already sexually active • Keeping awkward conversations open and honest Resources mentioned Books • What Makes a Baby , Sex Is a Funny Word , You Know, Sex – Cory Silverberg • Being You and Yes! No! – Megan Madison Organizations & platforms • Peer Health Exchange • Selfsea – digital platform by Peer Health Exchange with stories and tools created with and for young people • Planned Parenthood – resources and education for sexual and reproductive health Further reading • How to Talk to Kids About Sex and Boundaries – Child Mind Institute • How to Talk to Your Kids About Porn – TIME , by Dr. Dave Anderson • Talk to Your Kids About Sex and Healthy Relationships – health.gov • The Best Sex Education Books for Kids of All Ages (And Their Parents!) – Parents / AAP