Jamie Lynn Spears' Pregnancy and Your Child

An Opportunity to Prevent Teen Pregnancy?

It is bad enough that teen pregnancy is everywhere these days, becoming more socially acceptable each day. Now, we have those in the public eye popping up with growing bellies. After the recent rumors that Jamie Lynn Spears' show, Zoey 101, will be canceled, many parents are finding themselves struggling with very hard questions. How do I tell my child? What do I tell my child?

Do not avoid talking about it.

Unfortunately for parents, the topic of Jamie Lynn's pregnancy is not something that can be brushed under the rug or hidden from their children. It is like the commercial where a good-looking teen states, "If you don't talk to your son/daughter about sex, I will." Avoiding the topic only leads children to think that this behavior is normal and acceptable. Besides, ignoring it at home will only leave it open for discussion at school with friends. Is it not better that you tell your children about sex than their friends?

Do not put too negative a spin on it.

While it might make you feel better, calling Jaime Lynn or other pregnant teens names or degrading them will not make your child less likely to have sex. This action will only make you look like a monster to your child and possibly close the door for further discussions on the topic. Gently explain to your child why teen pregnancy is bad for both the mother and the child. Let them know that having enough love or money is not enough to raise a child. Opportunities are lost and goals get pushed back. Education is put on hold and the girl's body suffers from early pregnancy. Let your child know the real reasons why teen pregnancy is not the preferred choice, not just "because I told you so."

Do tell your children that you will always support them.