“The Birds, Bees, & Jr.”

Tuesday, August 04, 2015

At what age should a parent talk to their child about the male/female relationship? It seems like public schools push the issue as soon as possible, but I would rather give my children God's viewpoint before they are exposed to the world’s viewpoint on what is appropriate behavior. When should this discussion take place, and what would be the best way to approach it?

Sincerely, Us Against The World

Dear Us Against The World,

Talk to your children about male/female relationships as soon as possible – in an age appropriate way. A three year old can understand that married people raise babies and that marriage is for life. Obviously, you would avoid the specifics until they are older. The Scriptures tell parents that they should be discussing life lessons with their children whenever the opportunities present themselves (Deu 11:19). You simply scale the lessons based upon age and maturity.

The world is your classroom! Use every circumstance possible to explain (in an age appropriate way) how your children should act as they get older, including how to act toward the opposite gender.

1. Even the youngest child can learn to dress modestly (1 Tim 2:9).
2. The sanctity of marriage can be taught to all ages (Mk 10:7).
3. Be sure to teach the importance of only marrying a godly spouse (1 Cor 7:39, Pr 31:10).
4. Teach them not to worry about rushing romance (Songs 3:5).
5. Show them how wives need love and husbands need respect (Eph 5:33).
6. Explain male and female roles in marriage (Tit 2:4-5, 1 Tim 5:8).

All of these lessons are a thousand times more important than the details of a sex education class found in the school system. Train them how to be adults now, and they will be ready when they get there (Pr 22:6). As topics come up naturally, explain to them God’s teachings on the subject. Every child is different, so the teaching will look different every time. But be like Philip; ask them questions (Acts 8:30-31), answer their questions (Acts 8:34), and start the teaching from wherever they are (Acts 8:35).

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