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• Address the subject directly. Do not appear embarrassed as teenagers may interpret this as meaning that sex is something funny or to be ashamed of.
  
• Do not immediately assume your children are engaging in sexual activities when they talk to you about the topic. Make them feel at ease.
  
• Do not talk about problems. Instead, take the chance to build trust by sharing your life and experiences.
  
• Be a friend and refrain from scolding when your children talk to you about sex. Do not dismiss their friends as bad influences or sources of bad information, because in doing so you are indirectly putting them down.
  
  
• Fix a time every week to talk to your children. But do not turn them away when they come to you at any time. If you are busy, explain you will get back to them and be sure to do that.
  
  
• Make use of books and pictures when talking about reproductive organs. Emphasise that sex is related to morals and values such as love, commitment and responsibility.
  
• Brush up on your knowledge by reading books or attending parenting workshops organised by the 36 family service centres (FSCs). Call the FSC 24-hour line on 1800-222-0000 and an officer will direct you to the centre nearest your home.
  
• Vary your communication style and encourage your children to voice their views, as that will help to create opportunities for you to impart the right values.

Sources: Dr Carol Balhetchet, director for youth services, Singapore Children's Society; Mr Edward Ong, president of Singapore Planned Parenthood Association; Ministry of Education.

This article was first published in The Straits Times.