Talking about sexuality with your child

Psychologist & Sex Therapist Sheila Kamen, PsyD, shares advice for parents the best method and age to discuss sexuality with your child
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Talking about sexuality with your child

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I think it's appropriate to discuss human development and sexuality at the very beginning of their life. A lot of parents think about it like it's a single conversation, but I think it's much more effective to have discussions in an ongoing way with them that's appropriate to their development. There are so many teachable moments in everyday life. If your teenager is watching the show, "Teen Mom," it's perfect timing to sit down and talk to them. Talk about what they think about that, what is happening on the show. How would their life be different if they also were a teen mom or a teen dad? Also, toddlers often enjoy touching their genitals and pleasuring themselves, it's pleasurable for them. You can talk to them about masturbation and talking to them about appropriate ways to masturbate in private, so they are not doing it in public places. The more you do this, the less awkward talking about sex and sexuality is for you. Eventually, you will become a pro at talking about it, and your kids will sense your comfort level. When they have a questions about sex and sexuality, they will come to you with that same comfort and ease that you have shown them.

Psychologist & Sex Therapist Sheila Kamen, PsyD, shares advice for parents the best method and age to discuss sexuality with your child

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Sheila Kamen, PsyD

Psychologist & Sex Therapist

Sheila Kamen works with individuals and couples in La Jolla, California.  She works with individuals and couples as a coach and therapist. She specializes in couples therapy, sex therapy, and relationship coaching. She also offers premarital and family building counseling. While she no longer works with children, she does help parents with issues related to children.  Sheila lives in San Diego. 

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