Parenting in an Over-sexualized World

Children are being bombarded with sexual and adult content long before their minds can comprehend what they’re seeing, and according to a report by the American Psychological Association, it is estimated that our children will see over 14,000 sexualized images each year, with odds indicating they will be exposed to pornography by the age of 11.

This report, along with mounting research, makes a case that exposure to images in media and pop culture is creating a mental health crisis, as is evidenced by the steady increase in depression, low self-esteem and eating disorders in our children.

How can parents protect their kids in a hyper-sexualized culture? What’s the impact on children and their families? Are there best practices that parents can learn to open the lines of communication and talk to their kids about sexuality?

PARENTING IN AN OVER-SEXUALIZED WORLD is the next topic being presented at the RVA Parents Forum Series on Tuesday, February 10, 2015 at 6 p.m. at the Children’s Museum of Richmond- Short Pump location.

Dr. Rosalie Corona, an Associate Professor of Psychology at VCU, Brantley Holmes, Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner with Henrico County Department of Health, and Michelle Johnston, Commonwealth Parenting Educator, will address how to talk to your kids about sex in a non-judgmental, realistic manner.

“The key is open communication with your kids. Research indicates that teens who report having good conversations with their parents about sex are more likely to delay sexual activity,” said Liz Pearce, Director of Parent Engagement at Commonwealth Parenting and the Children’s Museum of Richmond.

Commonwealth Parenting is celebrating its 30th Anniversary and partnership with the Children’s Museum of Richmond by presenting the RVA Parents Forum Series, bringing together experts and family educators with parents to address challenging issues ranging from Bullying, Alcohol, Drugs, and Sex… to Divorce, Technology and Stress.

The RVA Parents Forum Series is held the second Tuesday of each month at 6:00 p.m. at the Children’s Museum of Richmond-Short Pump location, 2200 Old Brick Road, Glen Allen, VA 23060. The 6-part series kicked off October 14, 2014 and will run through April 14, 2015. Cost is $30 and includes dinner, class, parenting experts, and interactive Q&A session. Babysitting is available, reservations required. Please call 804-545-1272.