TIPS BY AGE
TALKING OPENLY TO…
Children aged 6 to 10
“What is sex?”
“Why do other people look different?”
“What is ‘being gay’?”
The facts
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Between ages 6 and 10, your child will lose the simplistic perspective of a toddler. Their thinking becomes more logical and complex, and they’re able to take in several aspects of a problem or situation at once
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But children this age usually still prefer concrete things that are “real” rather than concepts and ideas, and still need clear and consistent rules
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This stage, sometimes described as “middle childhood”, is when crucial social attitudes are formed, and friendship and teamwork skills become important. To stand children in good stead to withstand social and sexual pressures later on, it’s especially important to teach them about boundaries & personal safety now
TALKING OPENLY TO CHILDREN AGED 6 TO 10
Top tips
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Promise yourself never to shy away from questions. If you want to be your child’s first source of information, respond positively rather than shutting down their curiosity. If the timing isn’t right, agree to come back to the subject another time or in a different way
Strike a balance between honesty and what is age appropriate. It’s really about stage, not age. Take the lead from your children: go into depth if they ask questions and go at a pace that suits them. If they don’t ask, you can bring up topics if you feel they are relevant
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Don’t be put off by negative response or body language. Even if children seem unreceptive and give no indication that they are listening, they may be taking in what you are saying on some level. Don’t be afraid to repeat things over time
The more everyday the conversation feels – the more matter-of-fact and confident you are – the more willing your child will be to talk. If there are words or topics that make you feel uncomfortable, practise phrases that work for you
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Top phrases
“It’s OK to feel embarrassed. Keep talking and that might change!”
“This bit is important so I’m happy that you’re interested”
“You look… ready!”
“What do you know already about that?”
