Thinking about teaching about sex

[pegkerr]

In a rather interesting juxtaposition, I read two fascinating posts today on the subject of sex. The first was cakmpls's musings here about the changing mores/generational shift re: the delicate art of negotiation between a man and a woman as to whether her 'no' really means 'no' in the heat of the moment.

The other was an essay at Salon's Broadsheet [broadsheet] about the increasing cultural obsession with the virginity status of A list teen celebrities.

It's been interesting, reading these posts and reflecting upon my role as a mother in teaching my girls about their own sexuality: about thoroughly understanding it (the mechanics and emotions both), enjoying it without fear, and respecting its power. I've tried to initiate conversations over the years, to seize teachable moments. Still, I worry. Fiona is fifteen now. I haven't really detected much evidence of crushes, either way, among her group of friends, but they're at the right age (and face it, she's so beautiful), and the tone of their banter amongst themselves is occasionally starting to edge into the more risqué, so it could come anytime, I know. I think that kids today face a lot of pressures---and some greater dangers--that I didn't really face when I was in own my teen years. I was sort of a late bloomer, too, which, looking back, I think helped me a lot.

I hope I'm doing it right. God knows I'm trying. But I guess that's one of the questions parents might never know.

(Oh, except: Mom and Dad? You did it really right for me.)

Comments

[whiskeychick.livejournal.com]

we did the same with ours...the summer solstice parade and follow-on festival celebrates thinking that seems to have long gone to the way side...but, I digress. The parade begins with naked bicycle riders. My kids remember as their first experience of this -- back in '06 as the parade where people were not afraid to be themselves. :-D

All we can hope is that the truth will outweigh the ignorance.

[huladavid.livejournal.com]

Just wanted to let you know that I added you to my friends list.

[whiskeychick.livejournal.com]

awesome! thanks! Added back!