Keeping the Door to Conversations Open

You know that moment: you're juggling a million things, the kids are in full chaos mode, and then a little voice pipes up, “Mom, where do babies come from?” Talk about a surprise question! Honestly, it feels like the worst timing. Not only are you not ready for it, but neither are they—not like this, anyway.

Many parents miss the opportunity to engage because they lead with, “I’ll tell you when you’re older.” And often, there’s a panic response before they even consider how to approach it. Unfortunately, when this happens, kids may not come back to ask later. That reaction sends a clear message: these topics are off-limits.

So, how can we respond gracefully while keeping the door open for future conversations? I like to start small. It’s about creating little habits. When your child asks a question, even if you’re busy, try saying, “Oh! I’d love to answer that for you, but can you give me a few minutes to finish what I’m working on?” Taking a moment to think about your response is crucial. It shows your child that their questions matter and that you value the conversation.

You can also set the stage for deeper discussions. Go for a walk, share a cup of tea, or swing in a hammock together. These relaxed moments signal to your kids that it’s safe to talk about important topics—like where babies come from—when the time feels right.

Today on our podcast, my daughter asked me how baby teeth are formed. It was an easy one! I might not have known every detail, but I did my best to answer, throwing in some key terms like “womb” and “uterus.” These words start to lay a foundation for their future questions, helping them understand the world around them.

Getting into the habit of answering your kids’ questions with presence is crucial. Sit with them, look them in the eye, and show them you care about educating them. This builds their confidence, assures them of your support, and establishes trust. It sends a powerful message: they can come to you with any question, even the tough ones.

So, the next time your little one hits you with a big question, make sure they know you’re there for them. Whether you need a moment to gather your thoughts or can dive in right away, your willingness to engage will nurture their well-being as they grow into adults. And if you want a little help from me, give my Clarify Lesson Series a try and see just how simple this conversation really can be.