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Finding What Works
The Report to Delay Teenage Sexual Activity
By Kelly Burgess
analysis of the models studied in the report show that the most effective programs at delaying sexual activity were those that were very clear about how important it is to make good moral choices. "When you look at the characteristics of successful programs, one thing that is very clear is that they need to provide very clear messages to delay sex and use condoms," says Albert. "Some programs failed because they were too non-judgmental. They need to be clearer about what is the right choice." 
It's also not enough to just send children to programs, especially since there's no way to know whether or not the program being offered by your school or community is an effective one. Rather, expecting children to delay sexual activity and avoid teen pregnancy has to start at home. Albert says the most effective program in the world is a close, loving relationship with parents.
Dr. Jenkins and Anderson add that parents need to start taking a more active role in their children's sex education. "I think parents sometimes make assumptions about what their children know," says Dr. Jenkins. "In reality, we were shocked to discover how little factual information these children were getting about puberty. They're learning the wrong information from the wrong people, and that can have lasting consequences."
Finally, don't give up, says Albert. "Even if your teen is pulling their baseball cap over their eyes, they're listening," he says. "If you talk to your children about their bodies and sexuality while sending clear messages based upon your faith and morals, and supervise your children and know where they are and who their friends are, you are the best prevention in the world."
