We keep scratching our heads trying to figure out why young kids are sexting. But the fact is the formula is pretty basic: (curious kids + digital devices) x (sexualized media) = sexting normalized. So, the question is not if I need to have this conversation but how do I talk to my child about sexting without being awkward.
This episode is part of our #DearSavvy series. Sometimes you just want a quick answer to a burning question. These shorter episodes are designed to give you just that. Tune in to the podcast to hear the whole scoop, and check out the show notes for helpful tools and information. If you’d like to submit a question, click here to Contact Us.
Dear Savvy: How do I talk to my child about sexting without being awkward? I can’t even imagine this happening at this age.
Dear Listener,
Knowing why a child might be sexting (or sending nudes) will help you know how to approach the conversation. It doesn’t have to be awkward at all. Young children may not understand the concept of public vs private. Nor the long-term consequences of sharing images of themselves. Reinforce these concepts early. As kids get older, talk about the expectations placed on kids their age. Many kids think they have to send nudes in order to fit in. When dating becomes important, make a point to discuss what healthy expressions of commitment look like.
Here’s what we discussed today:
- What is sexting? What adults call sexting, kids more accurately describe as sending nudes.
- Why talk? Mix natural curiosity with cameras and media messaging and you get kids sending nudes.
- When to talk? Talk early and often. Notice how the conversation changes depending on the age and stage of your child.
- How to talk? We discuss how to talk to your child about sexting in age-appropriate ways.
“More than one in ten 8-year-olds have been exposed to sexting, with that number climbing to just over 42 percent by age 14.” —New York Post, 2019
Episode challenge
Pick a time this week to talk to your child about sexting. Decide on an approach. For example, privacy, identity, or relationships. No matter their age it’s important to talk openly. When kids feel prepared with information, they are more likely to stay safe online. Try reading Stand Up to Sexting: An Open Conversation for Parents and Tweens together. This is a wonderful book that can help facilitate amazing discussions between you and your child.
Do you have a question? Click here to Contact Us, email us at admin@parentsaware.info, or submit your question through any of our social media platforms. We’d love to hear from you!
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Links/Resources
Book: Stand Up to Sexting: An Open Conversation for Parents and Tweens by Christie Monson & Heather Boynton
Ep. #2-46, New Resource to Help Kids Stand Up to Sexting
Ep. #2-49, Pornhub Under Fire for Exploiting Children: Take Action Now!
*Disclosure: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means, at no additional cost to you, Parents Aware/Media Savvy Moms receives a commission if you click through and make a purchase. Thanks for helping to support us in our mission to protect families from the harms of pornography.
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