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Though sexual development is typically associated with the teen years, in reality young kids develop an emotional and physical foundation for sexuality in many subtle ways from infancy.

Physical and emotional changes become more dramatic and complex with the onset of puberty and into the teen years, and kids are likely to have lots of questions.

By arming yourself with the facts, getting some sense of what to expect, and being there to answer questions and offer guidance, you can be a trusted source of information, comfort, and support for your kids.

All About Development

• Understanding Early Sexual Development
• Precocious Puberty
• Female Reproductive System
• Male Reproductive System
• Questions & Answers About Sex
• Talking to Your Child About Menstruation
• Understanding Puberty
• Talking to Your Child About Puberty
• Your Child's Changing Voice
• Your Daughter's First Gynecological Exam
• Sexual Attraction and Orientation

Sexual Health Issues

• STDs
• Genital Warts
• When Your Teen Is Having a Baby
• Menstrual Problems
• Pelvic Inflammatory Disease
• HIV and AIDS
• Toxic Shock Syndrome
• Vaginal Yeast Infections

Birth Control

• About Birth Control: What Parents Need to Know
• About Abstinence
• About the Cervical Cap
• About Condoms
• About the Diaphragm
• About Emergency Contraception
• About the Birth Control Shot
• About the Birth Control Patch
• About the Birth Control Pill
• About the Birth Control Ring
• About the IUD
• About the Rhythm Method
• About Spermicide
• About Withdrawal

Questions & Answers

• My 1-year-old son always tries to touch his penis. Is this masturbation?
• Why does puberty sometimes happen early?
• My 9-year-old daughter is already developing breasts. Is this normal?
• My 10-year-old son's voice is already changing. Is that normal?
• How do I make my teenage son feel better about not having any facial hair?
• Is masturbation normal for a boy approaching the teen years?
• My daughter is embarrassed about her period. How can I make her feel better?
• When should my daughter first go see a gynecologist?
• Should girls who aren't sexually active be vaccinated against HPV?
• When will my 13-year-old daughter's period start?

Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor.

© 1995-2009 The Nemours Foundation/KidsHealth. All rights reserved.