Wednesday, December 19, 2007

Sex Ed Celebrity Style


The cat is out of the bag that the bun is in the oven. Jamie Lynn Spears is prego, and is quoted as saying "It was a shock for both of us, so unexpected." "I was in complete and total shock and so was he." We'll for those having sex, it's a real possibility. One would think that even if Jamie didn't have comprehensive sex ed, she would have learned this from Church, where she supposedly met boyfriend Casey Aldridge.

According to a recent report released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the birth rate for teens ages 15-19 has risen 3 percent since 1991. Not to mention that unmarried childbearing has risen to a record high of 20 percent since 2002. Something must be done! ...and it's likely parents can help lower these statistics.

For parents and young people alike, this is a perfect opportunity to turn celebrity gossip into a teachable moment. Talk about your family values. Discuss the realities of teen pregnancy for many teens--especially those that don't have their own TV show. Use this topics as a stepping stone to address self-esteem, healthy relationships, sexual health, and contraception. These conversations will create stronger bonds between parents and their children, and make young people better informed about sexuality and empower them to take charge of their future.

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