Most parents dread “the talk,” but raising confident, informed teens is less about one big conversation and more about a series of open, shame-free discussions.
Dr. Lisa Klein, pediatrician and co-founder of Turning Teen, joins Leslie Randolph to break down what kids really need when it comes to talking about puberty. Is there a right time to start? How do you make it less awkward? What happens if you feel totally unprepared? Dr. Klein shares practical ways to approach these conversations early and often, making sure tweens get accurate, age-appropriate information without fear or shame.
Dr. Klein and Leslie dig into the emotional side of growing up, from body image to social media influences. With so much misinformation online, how can parents become the go-to resource instead? Dr. Klein offers real-world advice to help parents navigate these tricky years with honesty, confidence, and a little humor.
Quotes
- “The talk, I want everyone to remember, is never just one talk. So don’t feel stressed that it has to be the talk. I think that that is a little bit like the old school way of thinking. And unfortunately, it’s still how it’s kind of presented in school.” (06:16 | Dr. Lisa Klein)
- “Shame-free, you know, it’s a big word, a big message I like to share. Shame-free, science-based, open and honest.” (11:16 | Dr. Lisa Klein)
- “Be the person your tween or teen turns to. Be their resource, because if you’re not, the internet will be.” (23:24 | Dr. Lisa Klein)
- “Communicate, be vulnerable, admit your mistakes, admit your flaws, admit what you’re working on. Say, ‘I don’t know the answer. I love your question. Let’s talk about it more. Let’s find someone to help us both.’ Communicate because if you don’t have that communication and openness, why in the world would they use you as their resource?” (37:47 | Dr. Lisa Klein)
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