“Mum, what’s a…?” How to respond without panicking
So… your child asks a question you weren’t expecting – maybe in the car, at the shops, or right before bedtime.
And suddenly your brain goes blank.
😳 In this episode, I’ll show you exactly how to respond to sex ed questions – whether you know the answer or not.
You’ll learn what to say in the moment, how to keep the door open, and why a “freak out” isn’t required
(even if you’re thinking please let the earth swallow me now).
🎧 You can listen to the episode right here or read the highlights below 👇
Listen now
In this episode
Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode of Sex Ed for Tween Parents:
- Why kids ask questions about sex, bodies, and relationships (and what they really want from you)
- A calm 5-step plan for responding – even when you feel clueless
- How to delay the convo without shutting it down
- What to say if you don’t know the answer (and why honesty helps)
- Ways to gently open the door if your child never asks questions
- Signs you’re doing a great job – even if it doesn’t always feel like it
One-minute challenge
Your challenge this week is simple:
Pick a go-to response for any tricky question – and practise saying it now.
“I’m glad you asked! Let me have a think and we’ll talk more about it tonight.”
That one sentence keeps the door open and buys you time.
Want more help?
Sex ed doesn’t have to feel awkward or overwhelming. If you want a little extra support to get the convos flowing…
Download my free guide:
5 Cringe-Free Strategies to Naturally Start Sex Ed Conversations
👉 cringefreestrategies.com
Check out the Q&A Guides in the Sex Ed Shop
They tell you exactly what to say (and what not to say) when tricky questions come up.
👉 Sex Ed Shop
Watch the video
More resources you’ll love
- Puberty 101 Page
Your go-to hub for all things puberty – including blogposts, guides, and tools to help your child feel confident and prepared.
👉 Visit the Puberty 101 page - The Sex Ed Shop
Need help figuring out what to say (and how to say it)? The shop is packed with ready-to-use guides, workbooks, and cheat sheets for every tricky topic.
👉 Browse the Sex Ed Shop - My Top 10 Favourite Puberty Books
Short on time? Here’s my personal shortlist of the 10 best puberty books I recommend most often to parents.
👉 Check out my top 10 puberty books - Complete List of Puberty Books
Explore a curated list of puberty books for different ages, genders, and topics—so you can find the right fit for your child.
👉 See all recommended puberty books
Did this help?
If this episode helped you feel more confident, would you leave me a quick review or share it with a friend?
You’re helping more families have the shame-free, honest conversations every child deserves.