Hey Dr Sue — I would love some resources on what and when to teach kids about sex. When is it okay for kids to see consenting, covered naked adults in bed vs nudity and sexual violence?

Here’s the full question: As the parent of a toddler and a newborn, and given all the pearl clutching in the U.S. over what kids are taught about sexual health, I would love some medical/educational-expert vetted resources on what and when to teach kids about sex. What’s the right age and presentation method for body parts, relationships, consent, safe sex, etc. I would also love some guidance (yours or others) on what media kids are exposed to; when is it okay for kids to see (or be in the same room while parents watch) consenting, covered naked adults in bed (Ted Lasso) vs Game of Thrones nudity and sexual violence (I assume- I haven’t actually watched any) and anything in between.

Great question, and you’re definitely not the only parent out there who’s wondering about this.

I want to start by saying this — forget about having “the talk” with your kids. There’s no one sit down talk where you’re going to cover everything and that’s it, it’s done. Instead think of it as a series of conversations over years. Conversations that provide age appropriate information, and more importantly, ones that demonstrate that…