Talking to kids about sex, consent, and safety can feel intimidating — or like something you’d rather put off. But kids are already getting information from somewhere, and it’s not always accurate or safe. In this episode of Thriving Kids, clinical psychologist and host Dr. Dave Anderson talks with Dr. Angela Glymph, CEO of Peer Health Exchange, about how to have honest, age-appropriate conversations that protect kids, affirm who they are, and strengthen your relationship with them.They break down what “comprehensive sex education” really means, how to start early with body autonomy and consent, and how to keep the conversation going through elementary school, middle school, and the teen years — without needing to be a “perfect” expert.GuestDr. Angela Glymph is the CEO of Peer Health Exchange, a national youth nonprofit dedicated to helping young people stay safe, healthy, and affirmed — no matter who they are or where they live. Her work centers adolescent health equity, social-emotional learning, and youth-led, inclusive health education. She’s also a parent, navigating these conversations at home herself.In this episode, we discuss:What comprehensive sex education actually includes (it’s more than just “the talk”)Why medically accurate, truthful information keeps kids saferHow kids really learn about sex, consent, and relationships (school, peers, online, social media)The benefits of giving kids good information vs. leaving them to “figure it out”How to teach body autonomy and consent starting in early childhoodWhy using correct terms (like vulva, penis, sperm, egg) mattersHow to build on the conversation in elementary school, middle school, and beyondWhen and how to talk about contraception, STIs, and safetyWhy abstinence can be part of the conversation — but not the whole thingHow to respond if your teen is already sexually activeWhat to do if you feel too awkward or underqualified to have these talksThe myth that teens don’t want to talk to parents about sex (and why it’s wrong)Age-by-age: Laying the groundworkAges 3–5 (early childhood)Simple yes/no and body boundariesNaming body parts accurately (including genitals)Basic explanation of where babies come from using truthful, simple language (e.g., sperm and egg)Ages 6–8 (early elementary)Building on earlier explanations with more biologyTalking about different family structures and ways babies come into familiesNormalizing questions and curiosityAges 9–11 (upper elementary)Puberty: what’s happening in their changing bodiesFactual explanation of sexual intercourse and pregnancy in developmentally appropriate termsIntroducing contraception and safety basicsReinforcing body autonomy and boundariesAges 12+ (middle & high school)Relationships, identity, and decision-makingMore detailed conversations about contraception, STIs, and safer sexConsent in the context of romantic and sexual experiencesHow to think about risks, pressure, and personal valuesKey takeaways for parentsIf kids don’t get information from you or other trusted adults, they will seek it elsewhere — online, from peers, or pornography.Comprehensive sex education is lifesaving: it helps prevent unintended pregnancy, STIs, and sexual violence, and it builds communication skills kids use far beyond this topic.Using medically accurate terms normalizes the conversation and gives kids language to advocate for themselves and report if something is wrong.Abstinence is a valid choice and part of comprehensive education — but it shouldn’t be the entire message.You don’t have to do this alone: your pediatrician, your child’s school, faith community, and trusted adults (like an aunt/uncle or family friend) can all help.Teens may act like they don’t want to talk to you, but many do want open, nonjudgmental conversations — they’re also trying to figure out how to approach you.Resources mentioned in the episodeBooks for kids & familiesCory Silverberg – books about bodies, reproduction, and growing up (including What Makes a Baby and later titles for older kids and teens)Megan Madison – Being You and Yes! No! (early childhood books covering gender, consent, and body autonomy)Organizations & platformsPeer Health Exchange – comprehensive, inclusive, peer-led health educationSelfsea (selfsea.org) – Peer Health Exchange’s digital platform created with and for young people, including stories and resources on sex, consent, and talking to parentsPlanned Parenthood – education and resources for teens and parents on sexual and reproductive healthFurther readingTalk to Your Kids About Sex and Healthy Relationships – health.govhttps://odphp.health.gov/myhealthfinder/healthy-living/sexual-health/talk-your-kids-about-sex-and-healthy-relationshipsThe Best Sex Education Books for Kids of All Ages (And Their Parents!) – Healthy Children / AAPhttps://www.parents.com/kids/health/best-sex-education-books-for-kids-by-age/How to Talk to Kids ...
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