Open Communication With Kids: Sensitive Issues And Uncomfortable Topics To Discuss With Your Children

Open communication is a great way for parents to bond with their kids, get to know them better and teach some valuable lessons. Unfortunately, some parents find it very difficult to discuss with their children certain uncomfortable topics.

Yahoo Parenting shared some of these awkward subjects that parents need to discuss with their children. Parents should remember that their children will talk and learn about these topics with somebody else if they are unable to honestly talk to you about these things.

The first subject is about money. Parents need to discuss with their kids the importance of money, how to save it, how to budget and spend, and the need to work hard and make an honest living. These are lessons that will be beneficial for children throughout their lifetime.

Another uncomfortable topic to discuss with your kids is about death. It is up to the parents if they will base their conversations about death on scientific grounds or its spiritual aspects or a combination of the two. Teaching them about coping with feelings of loss and grief should also be considered.

The next topic is about God and religion. It is for the parents to decide if they want to gently guide their children to grow up with the same beliefs or allow them to explore and look for other beliefs. The important thing to remember is to let the children find their beliefs naturally and not force it on them.

Drugs, alcohol and other vices should also be discussed with children. Talking to them about why people get addicted to these things and the possible consequences of being involved in drugs and alcohol should be included in the conversations.

Sex is also one of the most uncomfortable topics for parents to discuss with their kids. Parents have to fight through the awkwardness of the topic and just be honest about it. Help them learn about sex by teaching them proper manners, its purpose, its nature and the dos and don'ts.

Having open communication and honestly discussing uncomfortable topics with your children have tons of benefits. "Good communication is an important parenting skill," Child Development Institute shared. "Whether you are parenting a toddler or a teenager, good communication is the key to building self-esteem as well a mutual respect."