"Building a Strong Foundation: Nurturing a Sex-Positive Mindset with Your High School Athlete Before College"

 

Having a sex-positive conversation with your high school athlete before they head off to college is crucial for their sexual health and well-being. Here are some tips to help you navigate this conversation effectively:

Remember, having an ongoing and open conversation about sex and sexuality is essential. Let your teenager know that they can always come to you for guidance and support, and continue to foster a sex-positive environment where discussions are encouraged and normalized.

As your high school athlete prepares to embark on their college journey, it's essential to have open and honest conversations about their sexual health and well-being. By fostering a sex-positive environment, you can empower your teenager to navigate relationships, make informed decisions, and prioritize their sexual health. In this blog post, we will discuss the importance of having a sex-positive conversation with your high school athlete before college and provide tips to make the dialogue productive and meaningful.

1. Normalize Sexuality and Consent: Start by normalizing discussions around sexuality and consent. Emphasize the importance of consent, communication, and respect in all sexual relationships.
2. Explore Consent and Communication: Teach your teenager about the importance of enthusiastic consent and clear communication in intimate situations. Discuss the affirmative "yes" as the standard for consent teach your athlete that No means No encourage them to seek and respect consent in all interactions.
3. Discuss Healthy Relationships: Talk about what constitutes a healthy relationship, including elements such as mutual respect, trust, effective communication, and shared values. Educate them on what a toxic relationship/ partner looks like. Discuss the importance of setting boundaries and understanding the boundaries of others.
4. Educate on Safe Sex Practices: Provide accurate information about safe sex practices, including the use of contraceptives and protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Encourage your teenager to take responsibility for their sexual health and understand the importance of regular check-ups and screenings.
5. Discuss Peer Pressure: Address the topic of peer pressure and the potential challenges they may face in college. Talk about ways to navigate peer pressure and make informed decisions that align with their values and personal boundaries.
6. Address Consent and Alcohol/Drugs: Discuss the impact of alcohol and drugs on consent. Educate your teenager about the importance of engaging in sexual activity when all parties involved are sober and able to give and understand consent clearly.
7. Consent is Freely Given: Stress that consent should never be assumed or coerced. Teach your teenager that consent must be freely given by all parties without manipulation, guilt, or any form of pressure.
8. Discuss Digital Consent: In the age of technology, discuss the importance of consent in digital interactions, such as sharing explicit photos or engaging in online sexual conversations. Teach your teenager the significance of obtaining explicit consent in these situations.
9. Address Gender Stereotypes and Consent: Discuss the harmful effects of gender stereotypes on consent. Teach your teenager that consent is not dependent on gender and that everyone, regardless of gender, has the right to give or withhold consent.
10. Encourage Open Dialogue: Encourage your teenager to ask questions and express their concerns. Listen actively, provide accurate information, and respond honestly. Foster an environment where they feel safe discussing sensitive topics with you.
11. Provide Resources: Share resources such as books, websites, or campus health services that can provide additional information and support. Let your teenager know that you are available to support them and guide them through any challenges they may encounter.

Remember, having an ongoing and open conversation about sex and sexuality is essential. Let your teenager know that they can always come to you for guidance and support, and continue to foster a sex-positive environment where discussions are encouraged and normalized.