Have you dreaded “the talk” with your kids? Tired of all the name calling between your kids? Dr. Leman answers these questions with his usual wit and wisdom.
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Question #1 Deven:
How do I have “The Talk” with my 8 year old son who is hearing about sex from his friends at school? Should I answer all of his questions, or just tell him what I think he needs to know?
Dr. Leman’s Answer:
My view is: They are ready when they ask you any kind of question. Answer their questions, but don’t talk in volumes.
- Take the time to explain
- Make it clear
- Smile
- Be blunt
- Use whatever terminology you want to use
Affirm their questions and encourage them to bring you more questions as time brings them up.
Ask them not to share this information with their friends, because that is something the other parents should do.
You may find my book A Chicken’s Guide to Talking Turkey With Your Kids About Sex helpful.
A Chicken’s Guide to Talking Turkey with Your Kids About Sex
Question #2 Jocelyn:
How to eliminate name calling between kids?
Dr. Leman’s Answer:
You have a strong willed 11 year old!
You need to stay the authority without getting involved in the child’s antics.
Use my helpful pocket phrase, “B doesn’t happen until A is done!”
When kids get involved in arguing and tattling, have fun with a different approach to discipline by calling them all together and assigning cleaning duties (like toilets). Keeping kids busy with projects will demonstrate to them that tattling and arguing do not pay off!