Let's Talk

October is Let's Talk Month

Let's Talk month is, a national public education campaign that supports parents in their efforts to talk totheir children about healthy relationships, sexuality and other sensitive issues that can help young people delay pregnancy and avoid sexually transmitted infections in an open and honest manner.  Research shows that adolescents prefer their parents as sexuality educators, and young people want and need more information, guidance, and open discussions with their families.

While a community-wide response is essential to reduce teen pregnancy and sexually transmitted infection rates, families play a pivotal role in helping young people make healthy decisions about their sexuality. This gives parents an opportunity to share their values and provide their children with accurate information about sexuality. Unfortunately, often parents and other adults feel uncomfortable about discussing sexuality and need more information and ideas to start meaningful conversations.

Let's Talk Month is an opportunity for community agencies, religious institutions, businesses, schools, media, parent groups and health providers to plan programs and activities which encourage parent/child communication about sexuality. Kathy Robinson, Public Health Educator, was the guest speaker for the Making A Difference (MAD) program at the TTC Ripley on October 4^th. Robinson presented vital statistics and information about sexually transmitted infections within our county and encouraged participants to talk to parents/guardians about these issues.

The MAD program is collaboration between the Health Council, Department of Education, Regional Economic Development Initiative, and Tennessee Technology Center.

If you are interested in getting more information on how to start meaningful conversations with an adolescent in your life around making healthy decisions, please feel free to contact Kathy Robinson at 635.9711

Participants pictured with Robinson are: Genasia Allen, Aaliyah Lee, Michaiah Wesley, Shanya Steward, Shanice Conley, Tamyia Pearson, Sha’Diamond Barbee, Gabby Ben, Marques Washington, Jawan Mack, Kathy Bergstedt, Colton Williams, Monta Frazier, Keith Dye Jr, Jeremiah King, Cameron Cohill and Nathaniel Washington.