The Talk Reimagined: Youth and Parent/Caregiver Roundtables to Discuss Sexual Health Education

During the first quarter of 2026, Prevent Child Abuse Oregon was proud to support one of our Child Abuse Prevention Collaborative (CAP Collab) members in leading a community-based prevention project focused on sexual health education and dialogue in the Beaverton area. 

From January through April, the CAP Collab member facilitated a series of roundtable conversations that brought together parents and youth to engage in meaningful discussions about sexual health, strategies for communication to discuss sexual health with parents/youth, and centering youth well-being. These gatherings provided a supportive environment where youth and parents/caregivers could engage in open dialogue about sexual health, relationships, and experiences that may be difficult or traumatic to discuss, including sexual assault and abuse.

Establishing safe spaces for these conversations is a critical component of prevention work. Participants shared that these sessions helped reduce stigma around discussing sensitive topics, increased comfort in having honest conversations, and strengthened their ability to seek support, share experiences, and access information. Youth and parents/caregivers expressed that having a trusted space for dialogue made these topics feel more approachable and reinforced the importance of community-centered support in promoting safety, well-being, and healthy development. By supporting community-led initiatives that encourage education, connection, and informed conversations, Prevent Child Abuse Oregon and CAP Collab members continue to advance efforts that promote healthy relationships and strengthen families.

We are grateful to our CAP Collab members for their continued leadership and commitment to prevention-centered work across Oregon. Together, we can create communities where all children and youth thrive.