5 Myths About Talking to Your Kids About Sex (And Why They’re Wrong)

Talking to your kids about sex can feel intimidating. There are so many myths out there that might make you feel unsure about where to start, or if you're even the right person to have those conversations. Let’s tackle 5 common myths about talking to your kids about their bodies and relationships — and why they couldn’t be further from the truth.

1. “Your Past Disqualifies You From Being the Right Person to Talk About It”

If you’ve made mistakes in your past or you feel like you’re not the ‘perfect’ example, don’t let that stop you from talking to your kids. In fact, you might be the best person for the job! No one cares more about what happens to your child than you do, and studies show that parents have the most influence on their children’s attitudes about their bodies and relationships. If anything, your past experiences can be a powerful teacher to help guide them — and it’ll make your points even stronger.

2. “You Can Just Wait for Them to Learn It in School”

Waiting for school to take care of it? That’s a dangerous myth. Most schools don’t start teaching sex education until 5th grade, and even then, it's often just one class. Kids, however, are exposed to information much earlier, and they start asking questions about where babies come from as early as age 5. By 5th grade, they’re likely already curious about these topics, and if you haven’t been the one to give them foundational knowledge, you’ll miss out on the chance to share your beliefs and values. The key is to layer this education, starting early and building on it as they grow.

3. “They’ll Just Figure It Out”

Sure, your kids will figure some things out on their own — but where will they get their information from? Will it be correct? If you leave it to chance, you risk them picking up misinformation from peers, the internet, or TV shows. Providing your child with accurate, factual knowledge about sex not only helps them make informed decisions, but it also boosts their self-confidence and sense of safety. The more you share with them, the more prepared they’ll be to navigate these important topics confidently.

4. “Boys Don’t Need to Know What Happens to Girls’ Bodies”

This one’s a big misconception. As human beings, we’re all interconnected in our relationships, whether they’re friendships, family bonds, or romantic. It’s crucial for boys to understand how girls’ bodies work, just as it’s important for girls to know about boys' bodies. This isn’t just about empathy — it’s about respect and creating a sense of ease and understanding in all relationships. When both boys and girls are educated about each other's experiences, it creates a foundation for healthier, more respectful interactions.

5. “If You’re Too Open, You’ll Make Your Kid More Curious About Sex”

Here’s a myth that’s simply not true: the more you talk about sex, the more your kid will want to experiment with it. In fact, the opposite is true. Studies show that kids who receive comprehensive, open, and honest sex education are less likely to engage in risky behaviors. These kids tend to have lower rates of teen pregnancy, fewer STIs, and healthier relationships. The more you share, the more equipped they are to make smart, informed choices when the time comes.

Bottom Line: Don’t Wait, Start Early

Talking to your kids about sex and their bodies doesn’t have to be awkward, and it doesn’t have to be a one-time conversation. The more you talk openly, the more confident your kids will be about asking questions, understanding their own bodies, and making responsible decisions.

At Clarify Sex Education, I have designed my lesson series to help parents navigate these conversations with ease and confidence, starting with age-appropriate, factual information. I know that giving kids the right tools from the beginning helps them feel empowered and safe as they grow. I have seen it time and time again.

If you’re ready to start talking, I've got resources that will guide you every step of the way. Check out my Clarify Lesson Series and start having these important and yes, COMFORTABLE conversations today.