In our culture, peer pressure, normal impulses and feelings raise questions for youth about sexual experimentation and expressions. Continue to support your youth in making healthy moral choices guided by the Church's teaching on human sexuality to promote the values of modesty and chastity. Key points:

• stress the need to avoid sexually suggestive situations, entertainment and media influences (i.e., movies, internet, video games, magazines and popular music.) CCC 2354-56, 2525
• discuss with your youth the appropriate expressions of affection;
• foster respect for equal dignity of men and women; CCC 2203, 2333-35
• teach that sexual activity belongs only in marriage; CCC 2353
• provide instruction on a moral decision-making process rooted in Scriptural values and Church teaching. CCC 1749-61

Youth continue to need positive instruction in the wonder of human sexuality. Key points:

• provide the biological facts about human sexuality and creation of new life;
• instruct your youth in the two-fold unitive (loving) and procreative (life-giving) purpose of sexual activity in marriage; CCC 2360-63
• teach them respect for their own bodies and those of others;
• set boundaries for appropriate speech, dress and actions;
• continue to encourage positive hygiene practices; CCC 2288-91
• model good nutritional habits, regular exercise routines, and adequate rest;
• talk with your youth about the harmful effects of smoking, alcohol, and other chemical substances.

Jesus showed everyone how to be fully human and how to develop friendships. Key points:

• encourage your youth to imitate Jesus as a model for personal maturity and committed friendship. 'What would Jesus do?'
• help them find good models or mentors in whom they can confide;
• assist them in developing and maintaining healthy friendships.

All of us, including youth, fail to love God, our neighbors, and themselves. We sin. We must model God's readiness to forgive, and encourage reconciliation. Key points:

• talk with your youth about appropriate behavior, accountability and consequences; CCC 1781
• emphasize the fact that their behavior impacts their relationships with others; CCC 1939
• teach about God's forgiveness as expressed by Jesus in his life and ministry; CCC 1906, 1911
• encourage regular celebration of the Sacraments of Eucharist and Reconciliation.

Note: CCC numbers refer to related articles in the Catechism of the Catholic Church.