This document provides tips for parents to talk to their kids about tough issues: - Start conversations early, as experts recommend this approach, and it ensures kids receive accurate information from their parents. - Create an open environment where kids feel comfortable talking, such as asking about their day and showing interest in what's important to them. - Consider your own values when deciding what to discuss and how to have natural conversations, perhaps building on lessons you learned from your own parents. - Look for opportunities during everyday activities like driving or before bed to have informal little talks rather than making discussions into events. - Active listening when kids do open up, without interrupting or giving advice, can be as impactful as providing answers

1. Talking with Kids
About Tough Issues

3. Start Early
Experts say the earlier, the better.
If you don’t talk to them, someone else will.
This is the only way to ensure your child
gets the information you want them to have.

4. Create an Open Environment
Ask your kids about how their day went.
Even if they just answer, “Fine”.
If they know you are interested in the little
stuff, it will be easier for them to come to you
when it really matters.

5. Think About Your Values
How do you feel about the issue?
What do you want your kids to know?
What did you learn from your parents that
you want to pass along to your child?

6. Use Everyday Opportunities To Talk
Focus on “little talks”.
Informal times such as in the car or right
before bed work really well.
Talking should be a daily activity, not an
event.

7. Don’t Forget To Listen
When your child is talking, stop and give
them your full attention. Be present.
Don’t interrupt, or give advice while they are
talking. Allow them to take as much time as
they need. They don’t always need answers,
sometimes listening is enough.

9. Please Look For Presentations
On How To Specifically Talk To
Your Child About Sex,
Violence, Drugs, and Respect.
Coming Soon!
To Read The Full Article and For More Information Click Here!

10. Jane B. Conn, VFC Director
Megan Crouch, VFC Prevention Education Coordinator
Pat Clark, VFC Prevention Education Specialist
Ohio Department of Health
Ohio Domestic Violence Network
Ohio Alliance to End Sexual Violence
Find us at:
www.arcshelter.org
www.facebook.com/ViolenceFreeCoalition
“This publication/material was supported by the 5VF1CE001114-3 from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention.
Its contents are solely the responsibility of the authors and do not necessary represent the official views of the Center for Disease
Control and Prevention”