I know why parents are shy to bring up the topic of porn. Our parents didn’t have to have this conversation with us, and we have no models to go by. We’re scared to screw it up, as anyone would be.
I’m all about helping you have that first talk, opening the communication, and ensuring that it isn’t a train wreck.
Let’s start by NOT doing these:
Many parents hear about the dangers of online pornography and resolve to protect their kids from it, but then don’t actually have a conversation.
They might give their kids a cryptic message like, “Be safe online,” or “Don’t do anything I wouldn’t do,” and leave it at that.
They might check the browser history on their child’s device, find nothing of concern, and conclude that the conversation doesn’t really need to happen yet.
They might have their kid sign a technology agreement which states somewhere in the fine print that the child agrees not to access porn.
None of these are anything like a conversation, and I gotta tell ya, the results aren’t either.
For some parents, it’s much easier to install filters or parental control software than to talk with their kids about porn. Instead of having the conversation, they hope the tech will take care of it for them. Spoiler alert: It can’t and it won’t.
Let me be clear, I love giving kids books! However, a book about sex or dating or bodies is not going to prevent a kid from being exposed to porn.
Giving a kid a book is not the same as having a conversation with them. Give them the book if you’d like, but don’t do it instead of a meaningful discussion about the impact of porn on their lives.
Sit down and TALK ABOUT IT.
It’s perfectly understandable if you’re not sure how to get started. We got you!
Are you a parent needing help initiating this conversation? Get The Parent’s Guide
Are you a teacher, counselor or administrator wanting to identify and address explicit adult content in your school? Get The Education Bundle
You can totally do this.
We’re all in this together, and I’ve got your back.
The Third Talk
