Young people need safe, supportive adults they can turn to with questions, concerns, and difficult experiences. Being a safe adult doesn't mean having all the answers. It means listening and helping a young person get the support they need.

Talking with children and teens about relationships, sex, pregnancy, and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can feel uncomfortable—but these conversations are an important part of helping young people make healthy, informed decisions.

Mental health is an important part of a young person’s overall health and well-being. Parents and caregivers don’t need to have all the answers. One of the most important things you can do is pay attention, keep communication open, and make sure your child knows they can come to you when they need support.

Parents and caregivers have an important role in helping young people understand what healthy relationships look like and recognize behaviors that may be unhealthy or unsafe. These conversations don’t need to begin when your child starts dating. Healthy relationship education can start early with friendships, boundaries, respect, and communication.

Bullying can happen at school, in social settings, and online. As a parent or caregiver, you play an important role in helping your child recognize bullying, respond safely, treat others with empathy, and know when to ask for help.