Mom's Key Parenting Forum

A recent Harvard University study found that parents wait too long to talk to their children about sex. The study found that 40 percent of girls and 46 percent of boys had already been sexually active before their parents had the "sex talk" with them.

The researchers said many parents had missed the boat in educating their teens on sex. It is very important to talk to your kids about sex early on; don't worry, there are ways to make the conversation easier and less uncomfortable for you both.

It's important for parents to be honest about sex with their kids from an early age. Make sure to keep your explanations and descriptions age-appropriate, but don't shy away from answering their questions. If your kids feel comfortable discussing things early on, it will make it easier as they get older.

Reading books with your children may also help make the conversation go more smoothly. Check out your local library or talk to your pediatrician about resources that may be helpful.

Many experts say it's not a good idea to simply give your child a book and send him or her away to read it on their own, however. While older children and adolescents may read on their own, fathers should read the book as well and discuss it with their kids.