Talk about the tough stuff

The tough stuff of life gets tougher
as children get older. Often, so does
talking about it. The best way to keep
the lines of communication open- with
toddlers through the teen years and
beyond- is to be honest and forthright
from the very beginning.

When your children ask questions about
complex topics such as death, drugs,
sex, don't brush them off with a "wait
until you're older" message. Remember
what you were like at their age. Ask
why they're interested. See what they
know already. Correct any inaccuracies
they believe. Then share your heart and
knowledge in a way that appropriately
educates theirs.