They think, “My child has a mind of her own. I can’t stop her from doing anything.”

The truth is that parents can do a lot to prevent teen sex and teen pregnancy. Here are some steps you can take:

• Make your expectations about sex and contraception very clear. Explain why you feel the way you do.

• Talk with your child throughout adolescence about relationships and sex. Explain that you’re always willing to answer questions.

• Provide supervision for your child. Leaving kids home alone for long periods invites trouble.

• Get to know your child’s friends and their families. If possible, agree with other parents on common rules.

• Help your child set exciting goals for the future. Talk about how teen pregnancy would affect these goals.

• Make rules about dating, such as no “steady” dating until age 16. Don’t allow large age differences in your child’s dating relationships.

• Expect your child to work hard and do well in school. If problems arise, ask the school for help.

• Limit exposure to TV and other influences that send harmful messages about sex. Discuss inappropriate behaviors when you see them.

• Build a strong relationship with your child through love and discipline.

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