Puberty and Sex

A child's desire to touch and explore his body is healthy and normal. To punish him for his curiosity is not productive and may have serious consequences for him later in life.

Learn how to help stop the date violence.

Consider all the reasons why you decided that your daughter was too young to date, and you'll have your answer.

A mother asks how she can express her fears to her daughter about her boyfriend, without putting her on the defensive.

There are many good reasons to postpone dating for a 13-year-old.

A grandparent is upset that his granddaughter is spying on her parents' lovemaking.

It can be difficult to work with other parents when you find out that your child is involved in a sexual relationship.

It doesn't mean you are gay just because you liked being touched by a male friend.

How much should a 12-year-old learn about abortions?

A peck on the lips or cheek and hugs from you are fine, as long as they do not produce discomfort or inappropriate responses from your son.

Most pre-adolescents experience cattiness, but there are ways to boost their self-esteem.

Being gay has to do with much more than physical contact with a same-gender person.

A mother questions whether it would be inappropriate to allow her 14-year-old to wear thong underwear.

The wisdom of providing free condoms to high-school students remains under debate.

A 13-year-old asks what she should do to help her friend, who is having sex with older men. Our expert stresses the danger her friend is in.

Our expert concurs with a stepmother that her stepdaughter's sexualized activities are problematic.

Our expert advises a mother to discuss her dilemma with her ex and her daughter in the presence of a skilled, family-oriented therapist.

Encouraging kids of this age to pair off and to act like boyfriend and girlfriend is not advisable.