Watching your kids grow is magic. One day they’re born, the next they’re walking, then they’re driving, getting married, having kids of their own… But as they grow, talking to them can be difficult. Especially as the birds and the bees start to pop up. So how do you have those kinds of awkward but oh-so-necessary talks? Well, thankfully you have us to help you check off a few important key points!
What is a Healthy Relationship?
Simply put, a healthy relationship is a relationship in which two people form a connection based on a few, simple principles:
– Support.
– Honesty.
– Trust.
– Mutual respect.
Of course, they’ll want to find someone that they’re both attracted to and love.
What is an Unhealthy Relationship?
There are a few “red flags” you should discuss with your kids.
– Violence.
– Dependence.
– Dishonesty.
– Hostility.
– Control.
Very little wiggle room is allowed here. While white lies might not really fall under “dishonesty”, a pattern of lying can be a big red flag. Make sure that you talk to them about the definition of each of these, and how it can start off with little things and progress.
What is Abuse in Relationships?
Let your kiddos know that abuse in relationships isn’t always like the movies. Chances are they won’t start out with physical, sexual, or mental abuse. It will likely start out with small things and lead to progressively worse situations.
While there are many different ways that abuse can manifest, here are a few of the biggest signs of abuse in relationships:
– Sexual & physical violence.
– Threats.
– Put-downs.
– Jealousy.
– Possessiveness.
What are Some Important Aspects of Healthy Relationships?
While there are many things that can make a relationship happy, healthy, an flat-out awesome, there are a few things that build a great foundation. This includes:
– Good communication.
– Balance.
– Respect.
Be sure to give examples from your own relationship. This is a great opportunity to open up with your kids and grow closer together.
What does it Mean to Start an Intimate Relationship?
Compared to the rest, this is probably the hardest part to talk about. No one really wants to think about their kids having sex. But pretending that it might not happen doesn’t help.
There are a few things you should cover, including:
– Consequences such as STDs. (STD Sites can be a lifesaver here if your kiddo is too shy to talk to you about it.)
– Possibility of pregnancy.
– Emotional consequences.
– The fact that it can’t be undone.
– How important trust is.
Be sure to incorporate personal experiences with relationships. Whether you had to leave an abusive relationship or have been married for a long time, your experience is valid and important. It also helps your kids feel closer to you and may make it easier for them to talk to you about their own relationships and any problems they may be having.
It may be a difficult, awkward talk to have, but you’re their parent. You’ve done well so far, so just have confidence, keep an open mind, and know that your kid is probably just as awkward as you.
Author Bio: Paige Jirsa– I work with https://stdtestingfacilities.com/, which provides users same day STD testing in a discrete and proficient manner.