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Talking to your teen about sex can be difficult, awkward, and intimidating, AND it is important. The "sex talk" is actually a series of talks covering the basics, including protection from sexually transmitted infections, preventing pregnancy, consent, and LGBTQ+ identities... to name a few. 

Jefferson County Youth Know What Enthusiastic Consent Is

At the 2025 Youth Town Hall, Jefferson County youth said that enthusiastic consent in a healthy relationship:

• Is a clear and eager "yes"
• Is more than verbal
• Goes beyond sex
• Muse be a sober "yes"
• Can be withdrawn
• Must not be coerced

Communicate to your teen that consent is necessary and that there are resources available to learn more. Love is Respect is the national resource to disrupt and prevent unhealthy relationships and intimate partner violence by empowering young people through inclusive and equitable education, support, and resources.

Video: Tea and Consent

If you’re still struggling with consent, imagine instead of initiating sex you’re making the other person a cup of tea. 

Video is two minutes and forty five seconds long (2:45).

Open Ended Questions About Sex & Consent

How to Start a Conversation About Sex & Consent

Jefferson County teens report, while adults discuss the physical aspects of sex with them, adults aren't providing needed guidance to teens about such topics as creating healthy relationships, consent, use of alcohol as a "date rape" drug, sending nude photos, and making sexual comments about others.

First, find an opening. Some ideas are: 

• When a news story, meme, movie, TV show, or music video raises issues about sex or consent, use it as an opportunity for discussion.
• Text your teen the a link to the Tea and Consent video, above.

Then, ask a direct question that can't be answered with a simple "yes" or "no." For example:

• What kinds of sex-related stuff do people talk about at school?
• How would you stop a friend who was going to have sex with someone who was drunk?
• What exactly does consent mean?
• I might not know the answers, but what questions do you have about birth control?
• How does your school define sexual harassment? What do they do to keep it from happening?
• Why do teens send nude pictures? What would you do if you got one?

The best way to show your teen you care?

Be there.

Have a talk with your teen.

Learn more at https://jeffcoctc.care/twelve-talks/sex-and-consent/