And no matter how much you might want to put the inevitable off, it is important you are prepared for the day your youngster comes up and starts asking tricky questions – the last thing you want is to be caught off guard.
Don’t laugh
It is important you are not judgmental, cast your child’s curiosity aside or laugh– they might never come to you with questions if they feel like you are laughing at them. Try to stay calm and relaxed, remember it will get easier the more you discuss it.
Be honest about how you are feeling
If you do start to giggle or feel your face going red, it is important you are open and honest with your child and tell them that you are feeling a little shy or embarrassed about talking about it. This way they will know that it’s not them asking a question that is making you feel uncomfortable and it might help them feel a little more at ease as well.
Practice
This might sound a little bit silly, but if the thoughts of talking to your youngster about anything to do with the body or sex makes you cringe, a little practice can help. Sit down with your partner or a friend and practice what you are going to say – you will feel better prepared when your youngster does come to you.
Listen to your child
It is important you listen to your child’s question before you jump in with an explanation. If you need a little clarification ask them what they mean so that you answer the question, not what you think they should know about.
Use everyday teaching opportunities
Make use of everyday teaching moments to engage your little one about adult things to help them understand it a little better. Baby birds, animals feeding their young or meeting pregnant women can help to engage your little one in conversation.
Keep in mind the age of your child
It is important you keep in mind the age of your child when discussing the birds and the bees. A child over the age of six will be able to handle the emotional aspect but you won't need to go into as much detail as you would a nine or ten-year-old.
