TALKING ABOUT RELATIONSHIPS WITH YOUR KIDS

● Discussing sex and relationships with your children can foster healthy, empowering relationships.

● Talk to your children from a young age – don’t wait for them to ask questions, as they may feel like some subjects are off limits.

● Pick a time when they’re relaxed, and they don’t have friends or family around.

● Make sure you speak honestly, as kids know when they’re being lied to, and don’t be judgmental.

● It’s important to talk to boys and girls about consent – which means actively saying yes to sexual activity, using both words and body language. Help them understand that consent is about feeling in control and saying yes to sexual activity because you choose to.

● Signs that might indicate your child is an unhealthy relationship include persistent changes in their mood, becoming isolated from friends, and feeling reluctant to go to school l For more information, visit nspcc.org.uk/keeping-childrensafe/sex-relationships/healthyrelationships.