Most people agree that sex education is best taught to children by the primary caregivers. Yet, since the 1940's, the primary sexuality educators of youth in the United States have been the media and peers. Talking to your children about sexuality can be embarrassing. Here are a few simple guidelines that can reduce the embarrassment and facilitate open discussion.

Start early. Young children are naturally curious about their bodies. Talk to children early about the various parts of their body in terms that they can understand. Starting early opens lines of communication and lays a foundation for ongoing discussions.

Be honest. Give your child accurate information. Misinformation causes confusion or suggests that you are not a reliable source of information for this topic. If you cannot answer a question, research a human sexuality book in your local library or consult Sexuality Information and Education Council of the United States (SIECUS) at http://www.siecus.org, together with your child.

Use teachable moments. Sexuality surrounds us in everyday life. As topics arise, discuss your values, ideas, and expectations with your children. Discussing topics as they arise provides smaller amounts of information that the child may remember longer. Trying to have one big talk places unnecessary stress on you and may not be relevant to the child's current interests.

Reassure. Children worry about development, sexual thoughts, and feelings. Reassure your child that physical and emotional changes are part of normal development.

Teach respect for individual differences. Teach your child that there are different approaches and views regarding sexuality. Your values are based on your culture and your preferences. Differences are not right or wrong, good or bad; they are merely differences.

Be a role model. Demonstrate how to maintain healthy sexuality by getting regular physical exams, performing regular breast or testicular self-exams, and practicing safe sex.