Some things in life are just never easy, and one of those is “the talk.” You know the one — the birds and the bees chat you’ll have to have with your teen (or preteen) to prepare them for that special time in life when dating and romance and all the associated pitfalls become a part of their reality. If only there were a way to make “the talk” easier and less awkward — for both of you. Well, thanks to one hero mom, there just might be.
Tamara Mason, who posts on TikTok as @tamaramasn, went viral recently on the video-sharing platform for a clip she shared from when she gave “the talk” to her teen daughter. What really caught people’s eye, though, was the incredible PowerPoint presentation Mason made to go along with the lesson.
The video shows Mason’s daughter cozied up on the couch—with a snack spread on the coffee table, to make things as comfortable as possible. Mason is posed in front of the TV, which has her PowerPoint on display. Looking like a full, unironic #BossBabe, Mason clicks through professionally designed slides with titles like “How Do I Know If I Like Someone” and “What Can Help You Not Have Sex Too Soon.” Others explain healthy vs. unhealthy behaviors and the difference between STIs and STDs. This is award-worthy.
In the caption, Mason wrote, “A couple of days ago my best friend posted about my presentation while I was having ‘the talk’ with my 14 y/o. Yes, I made an entire slideshow for the moment. Tell me you’re a millennial without telling me you’re a millennial.”
So true.
In the comments, other parents let Mason know just how impressive her PowerPoint skills are.
“This is so smart! As someone who didn’t grow up in a family where we discussed this, thank you for doing this for your daughter,” one commenter wrote.
Another added, “Teaching from a place of education and self-awareness instead of shame is what will set this next generation apart! They are going to amaze us all.”
And since Mason obviously got a ton of requests from other parents who wanted to “borrow” her genius presentation, she’s now made it available to download — complete with presenter notes — from Etsy. You’re welcome.
How to give your teen the ‘sex talk’ in a relatable way
In case the Powerpoint idea isn’t up your alley, there are other ways you can approach the big “birds and the bees” discussion with your teenager. Here are some tips:
- Create a comfortable environment. Pick a private time and place where your teen feels safe to have an open discussion. Avoid lectures and make it more of a conversation.
- Focus on open communication. Encourage your teen to ask questions and share their thoughts and concerns. Let them know you are there to listen without judgment.
- Use inclusive and non-judgmental language. Avoid shaming or moralizing language. Stick to facts and science-based information.
- Discuss consent, boundaries and healthy relationships. Talk about respecting oneself and others, communication, and how to identify unhealthy dynamics.
- Cover the basics of sexuality, contraception and STI prevention. Provide information on anatomy, puberty changes, safe sex practices, and resources for further learning.
- Share your own values and experiences, if appropriate. This can help you stay relatable and allow your teen to see you as a trusted confidant.
- Encourage them to come to you with any future questions or concerns. Let them know your door is always open.
The key is keeping the discussion open, honest and age-appropriate. By making it a collaborative dialogue, you can help your teen feel empowered to make informed and healthy choices.
