Soap Addicts Use Storylines To Talk To Kids

Soap addicts following Coronation Street’s story on love struck Nick and Maria are being urged by national charity Parentline Plus to use this ideal opportunity to talk to their kids about sex.

Using soap storylines is just one way for parents to break the ice and talk about sex with their adolescents, says the charity. With research showing that kids want sex advice from their parents, the charity urges mums and dads to find time to talk and says what better way than to use everyday TV soap themes to start a conversation.

Coronation Street viewers will be watching lovers Nick and Maria desperately trying to find time alone for their passionate relationship and are urged to think of ways in which they could use this as a cue to start a conversation with their teenagers about sex and relationships.

‘This storyline is a great example of how we can use what we see on TV to get conversations started, says Dorit Braun, Chief Executive of Parentline Plus, ‘Using a topical soap theme to pose ‘what if’ questions about what the two of you would do in a certain situation gives you a chance to say how you would think and feel should that dilemma ever occur.’

Over one in ten calls (11%) to Parentline Plus’ 24 hour helpline - 0808 800 2222 – are from parents concerned about their children’s sexual behaviour and relationships. Many parents want to play a key role in helping their children make responsible decisions about sex but feel embarrassed to talk about it and unsure where to get information and support in doing so. The charity’s ‘Time to Talk’ campaign aims to help and support parents to talk to their children about sex and relationships. The charity’s top ‘Time to Talk’ tips are:

• Start early by answering your child’s questions simply, and keep the conversation going as they get older
• Use everyday media to start conversations – soaps, adverts, TV programmes, magazines – then you can talk about other people that is sometimes easier to start with
• Talk about feelings and relationships, not just the biology
• Let your child know what you think and believe
• Find out when sex and relationships are being taught at school, so you can ask your child what they thought of the lessons to open up a conversation
• Talk when you are doing every day things together e.g. washing up, walking somewhere, watching TV so it’s a normal part of family life

Deirdre Saunders, agony aunt for the Sun newspaper, says; ‘We all have the best of intentions that we’re going to hold meaningful conversations with our children about sex and relationships, but all too often a thousand other time pressures get in the way. It’s especially easy to keep putting off talking about the embarrassing and awkward subjects, but meanwhile children and young people can be worrying or building up mistaken impressions based on playground gossip.’

Parents who would like support or the ‘Time to Talk’ leaflet or can call Parentline Plus’ confidential free helpline on 0808 800 2222, or go to the website www.parentlineplus.org.uk for additional information.