A small child will likely ask at some point in their young lives about how babies are made, and parents are rarely prepared. Here are 8 surprising facts on sex education for kids:

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Please know that it is absolutely acceptable to respond immediately with these six words. “Let me get back to you”.

I promise your child will be ok with this as an answer for just enough time for you to get yourself prepared, mentally and emotionally.

And only you can deem when and what is age appropriate for your child.

Fact 1: Young children are sponges

Kids are sponges and they are truly fascinated with how babies can be made.

Fact 2: Children are curious little creatures.

They look to their parents for guidance and answers, and if they don’t get these answers or aren’t satisfied with them they WILL widen their search. Perhaps even to the school yard! *Uh Oh! We don’t necessarily want this do we?

You might also enjoy reading What to Do When You Don’t Know How to Answer Your Child’s Awkward Question

Fact 3: Don’t leave it to Google

That little webpage you might have heard of called Google. It is a big no no for your precious little one to be googling about how babies are made. Especially if they hit the ‘images’ button. *sharp intake of shocked breath

Fact 4: They know what a Vagina and Penis are.

They either have one or have seen one. What is done with them will be new however. *hold yourself together now, stay with me.

Fact 5: They CAN handle it.

Consider that the only embarrassing part is your perception of sex. Here’s a little tip to remember. Sex is just the first part of conception. What happens after the sperm reaches the egg is the really amazing part. It’s science, what kid isn’t fascinated by science. *instant mind blow for a young child – also very cool and satisfying to have a truthful matter of fact answer from mum or dad.

Fact 6: It’s best to have the conversation early

Having the conversation early, preferably before it is a hot topic in the school yard is best (5-7 years old).

But remember, no small child needs too much information, and certainly not adolescent information. We are just explaining how babies are made on the most basic of levels at this point.

You may also find 10 Tips to Help Keep Kids Safe useful

Fact 7: You can leave a book about if you are not sure what they know.

If you have left it a tad late and your child already has a pre conceived view or knowledge but you are not sure what they know or don’t know. Simply consider leaving a book about human conception lying around the house that is age appropriate. This way they can have a sneaky read for themselves on their own terms.

Fact 8: Through knowledge certainly comes power.

The power to say NO if a situation arises that your child is uncomfortable with. Having the ‘talk’, leads to having an open dialog with you and this will empower your child more than you will ever know.

Over to you now. How have you approached teaching or talking sex education for kids? Tell us your tips in the comments below.