Parents: What You Can Do

While there are universal and timeless themes like protection, love, provision, sacrifice and guidance that mark and define the relationship of a parent to a child, we must acknowledge that the challenges that parents face today in helping their children navigate through an increasingly sexualized culture are unprecedented. 

How then can parents successfully guide their children through the digital maze of media that seeks to undermine what most parents want for their children? While in the age of sophisticated technology this may sound simplistic, may we advise to just keep talking.

Read the articles & tips below to learn how you as a parent can connect with your teen and help them make good decisions.

Just Keep Talking

In the age of technology and communication methods, the most important thing may be the simplest: keep talking to your teen.

How Parents Can Teach Abstinence

Teaching abstinence until marriage can seem like a difficult task for parents. However the benefit outweighs a parent’s fear. Take advantage of every opportunity to teach abstinence as children mature.

Teaching Teens About Marriage

At parent workshops, one question frequently asked is "When do I talk to my teen about sex?" The answer: It begins with birth. It begins with your example.

MySpace, Media, and Messaging

Teens are familiar with communicating with their friends through text messaging, email, online instant messaging, and more.  The benefit of this communication style is that people tend to be more honest. As a parent you can use these mediums of communication to build a relationship with your teens.

Build a Connection

According to the Department of Health and Human Services, Parents Speak Up, "Teens who feel more connected to their parents, are more likely to have their first sexual experience later than teens who are less connected to their parents."

Back to School Checklist For Parents

Whether you are the mom of a preschooler or a grandparent, use this back-to-school time of year as a reminder to learn what is being taught in your local school.

Five Helpful Tips to Monitor Your Children

Supervise, know your children's friends, discourage early dating, help your teen set goals for the future, and build a strong relationship.

Look for more Parent articles in the A&M Newsroom.