Educating Youngsters About Reproduction and Sex

QUESTION: I break out into a cold sweat every time my 4 year old son starts
wondering where babies come from. I have doubts that I know enough about
educating youngsters of his age about reproduction and sex, yet feel there
must be an answer both to his question and my problem. I wish you could take
over for me. What do I do?
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ANSWER: If the answer that you are not alone can help you to relax, then be
assured, there are many other parents in this same boat. The hardest part is
overcoming your own doubts of inadequacy; but fear not, you can manage quite
well if you stay calm and follow a few important tips. Stay cool, stay
accessible to your youngster, and stay simple. Don't panic when such
questions arise, but listen carefully. You may be making more out of the
question than Junior is intending. When your reaction shows that you don't
find such discussions difficult, you remain the first person to ask for such
information, an important position you don't ever want to abandon. Once the
intent of the question is understood, answer as fully but as simply as
possible. Don't launch into that complete lecture you have been rehearsing
against this moment, as it is just not necessary. There will be time enough
for that in the future, if you don't lose the thread of curiosity that
promotes the questioning at this time. You are just at the beginning now,
with plenty of time to read up on the advice from the experts, and become
prepared to continue such conversations throughout the emotional, social and
yes, sexual development of your offspring. You have the responsibility to
guide your child through the trials of growing up and teach the ethical
principles that motivate your own life.