When We Say Sexual Health..

Often when we speak of adolescents, sex, and sexuality, we focus on what adults don’t want young people to do. But sexuality is a normal, positive, and lifelong aspect of health and well-being, and it encompasses more than our particular behaviors. Healthy adolescent development involves not only bodily changes, sexual behaviors, and new health care needs, it also involves building emotional maturity, relationship skills, and healthy body image. Each of these broad areas includes many topics for conversation – and many opportunities for parents to share their own values and hopes for their children.

Here’s our definition. a sexually healthy adolescent — or adult — could say:

This is what it takes for me to be sexually healthy.

I am comfortable with my body and my sexuality.

I can talk effectively with my peers, family, and partners.

I know my body and how it functions.

I understand the risks, responsibilities, and consequences of sexual behavior.

I am able to recognize risks and ways to reduce them.

I know how to access and use health care services and information.

I am able to set boundaries when it comes to sex and sexual relationships.

I act responsibly according to my personal values.

I am able to form and maintain healthy relationships.

Learn more on the ACT for Youth main site:

What Is Sexual Health?

Sexual Development

More Resources: Get the Facts

There are so many resources for parents to build knowledge about sexual and reproductive health it can be difficult to know where to start! This collection of resources can help you prepare for conversations or respond to your teen’s questions.

What should I teach my high school-aged teen about sex and sexuality?

Topics in this guide from Planned Parenthood include:

Waiting to have sex until they’re ready
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and safer sex
Masturbation
Pornography

Talking About Consent and Healthy Relationships at Every Age

Planned Parenthood gives examples of specific messages parents can give to help prevent unhealthy relationships and sexual assault, or know what to do if something happens.

Teaching Sexual Health.ca

Canadian educators and health care professionals offers a wealth of information for parents on topics including:

Bullying
Consent
Puberty & Sexual Development
Relationships
Reproduction & Pregnancy
Sexual & Gender Diversity
Sexual Decision Making
Technology & Media

Strong Family Alliance: LGBTQ

Strong Family Alliance works to help parents learn to support their LGBTQ children. Parent Guides are available for parents of lesbian/gay/bisexual children and for parents of transgender children.