And you thought the old birds and the bees talk was awkward.  Add in condoms and IUDs, and it's a whole 'nother mess of "don't wanna do it."  But in this age of AIDS, STDs, and our old favorite teen pregnancy, it's your job as a parent to talk to your kids about ways to protect themselves.  If you don't, your kids might end up with a ton of misinformation or missing information.  So how to broach the subject?  Here are a few tips to make it a little easier.

1. Be straight.  Hey, you signed up to be a parent, and yes, that includes all the messy, uncomfortable stuff.  So, make like Nike and just do it.  The more comfortable you appear (notice we said "appear"), the more comfortable your child will be.

2. Don't put the scare on them.  Just give 'em the facts, Dan-o.  The real stats are scary enough, and blowing them out of proportion will only lead your kids to distrust you.

3. Listen.  Ask them about kids in school, what they've heard about birth control, what they want to know.  They might not open up, but then again, they might surprise you.  Making the conversation a dialogue instead of a long lecture can help your communication overall.

4. Go with the moment.  Sometimes, it's better not to give a grand lecture about birth control and sex.  If the moment is there to throw in a line or two about sex, go for it.  It's less awkward than making a big deal about the dreaded "talk."

5. Share your values but don't be judgmental.  Make sure you relay your values regarding sex and birth control, but reserve judgement of your child's questions.  Instead, discover what your child actually knows about sex, educate them on their mistakes, and give your child pros and cons of each decision.

6. Be open.  Have your sensors out.  Your child might actually approach you before you approach her.  Be aware when your child asks questions or makes statements about birth control and sex.  It might open the door to a more in-depth conversation.

7. Be honest.  Answer questions honestly.  Talk about your discomfort.  Use humor.  Your child will be relieved.

Your child will ultimately make decisions about sex and birth control.  Hopefully, if you approach your child openly and honestly, she or he will make the right ones.  What are your tips for "the talk?"