For some months now, Paul has been fretting. Jamie, Paul's 12-year-old, is about to start high school and Paul feels it's time for "the big talk." But in spite of his positive attitude toward his own sexuality, Paul feels uncomfortable talking to his son about the issue.

He's not alone. When it comes to discussing sex with their children, many parents feel uncomfortable or unqualified.

Of course, the best way to educate your child about sex is to make discussions about love and values a natural part of growing up.

However, if your baby is about to turn 13 and you have done little to prepare him for encroaching adulthood, don't despair. With a little frankness and perhaps an assist from a book from the local library or some literature from a sexual health clinic, you and your child can begin a useful dialogue. Certainly you will want your maturing child to know the facts about sex and pregnancy. Just so, responsible parents will make sure that their youngsters are informed about AIDS and sexually transmitted diseases.

These factual discussions will provide a natural lead in to future discussions on issues including sexual conduct and values -- both yours and your child's.

The decisions young people face in matters of love and sex will never be easy. However, as a parent who has helped to educate a youngster about sexual habits and mores, you can take comfort in the fact that as a son or daughter grows into adulthood and makes choices, he or she will be operating from a foundation of knowledge and reflection rather than ignorance.

© Algoma Family Services