I get a lot of questions about how and where to have a conversation about sex with a teenager.  Many teens say “no thank you” in one form or another when the topic comes up.  So let me give you the top 5 places to converse about sex and sexuality.

Lets start with the worst times/places for kicks, and then do the best!

Number 5 : in the hall when they have just gotten back late at night

Number 4 : in a public place like a mall

Number 3 : in the living room when their friends you just met are sitting on the couch

Number 2 : any place when their boyfriend/girlfriend is around (unless you know him/her very well)

Number 1 : anywhere when the boy/girl they have a crush on is around!

And now for the 5 best places to talk:

Number 5: in the kitchen when their friends have just left the house

Number 4: on the couch when you are watching TV together, TV shows offer the greatest conversation starters

Number 3: when you are listening to music or doing something fun together without other people around

Number 2: anywhere when they ask you a question

Number 1 all time place to converse…….The Car!  They are a trapped and captive audience…just kidding…you have time then, and they have time as well, it can be a great place to recap the day, and to have deeper conversations about things like sex.  Use music they are listening to as a conversation starter.  Rap is great for this!  You can say something like “wow, do girls really do…” or “wow, do you know any guys who would do that?” etc.

If a conversation does get started remember to listen, listen, listen!  Good luck, and remember to gas up the car, it could be a long trip.  Best outcome, you could just end up parked in the driveway talking for hours.