October is Let’s Talk Month: How to Start "The Talk" with Your Kids

October has arrived, and with it comes Let’s Talk Month—a perfect reminder to engage in important conversations with your kids. As a parent, I know how challenging it can be to approach tough topics like relationships, sexual health, and growing up, but it doesn’t have to be a daunting task. In fact, the more you open up and talk to your children about these issues, the stronger the connection you’ll build with them.

Over my 20 years of working in sexual health education, I’ve seen firsthand how a lighthearted approach—using humor, fun activities, and storytelling—can make even the toughest subjects easier for parents and kids to navigate together. At The Talk Institute, I’ve developed courses designed to help parents create that bond, ensuring their children see them as approachable, which is key to building an ongoing, trusting relationship.

Why October is the Perfect Time to Start THE Talk

In today’s world, kids are exposed to more information than ever, especially from social media and friends, which may not always be accurate. That’s why now, more than ever, it’s important to take the initiative to start these conversations. October is the perfect time because it serves as a reminder of how essential these talks are for your child’s development and well-being.

The conversations can be tough, but they’re necessary. Whether you’re just getting started or want to make sure you’re doing it right, check out these helpful blogs for more guidance:

• Preparing for THE Talk - Getting Started Guide for Younger Kids
• 3 Secrets to Get Your Kids to Talk to YOU about "IT"

Finding the Right Moment

The key to a successful conversation is finding the right moment. Maybe it’s during a calm drive, while cooking dinner together, or out on a hike. You want the setting to be relaxed, so the conversation feels natural. You can start with something simple like, “Hey, I know this might feel a little awkward, but I want us to be able to talk openly about important topics like relationships or health. I’m here to answer any questions.”

Sometimes parents fear these conversations will make things more awkward or uncomfortable, but the opposite is true! In fact, The Talk Kids Want to Have explains why kids are more open to having these discussions than you might think.

Use Teachable Moments to Guide the Conversation

You don’t need to wait for the “perfect moment” to have THE talk. Instead, look for teachable moments that naturally arise in your everyday life. For instance, if a TV show you’re watching together touches on a sensitive subject, use that opportunity to ask your child what they think.

Check out Utilize & Create Teachable Moments to get starter dialogues and find ways to weave these topics into everyday conversations.

Keep Calm and Listen

Remember, it’s not just about what you say—it’s about how you say it. Keep a calm, non-judgmental tone and encourage your child to ask questions. Even if your child seems shy or unsure, let them know there are no “wrong” questions and that you’re always there for them.

For more tips on staying composed, 5 Things Parents Do Wrong When Having THE Talk! is a helpful guide to avoiding common pitfalls.

If your child asks difficult questions, you don’t need to have all the answers right away. Take your time and work through it together. The Secret to Answering Difficult Questions Children Ask offers a simple framework for approaching those tough moments.

Make It an Ongoing Conversation

THE talk shouldn’t just happen once—it’s an ongoing dialogue. Whether it’s about body changes, friendships, or boundaries, your child will likely have new questions as they grow older. Having regular conversations allows them to feel safe and supported throughout their development.

If you need help navigating these discussions, explore The Top 10 Toughest Sex Questions that Kids Ask and How to Answer Them to get more insight into what kids want to know.

Ready to Start Talking?

For those looking to really get into the nitty-gritty, The Talk Institute offers online courses and live courses that cover all the essential topics for families. Our programs create meaningful connections between parents and kids, turning these difficult discussions into rewarding experiences.