This is a new series in the Positive Parenting context, intended to find out how parents handle certain sensitive, even explosive issues.

The open and honest relationship Beverly Dennishas with her son, Kevin, was put to the test recently when the 12-year-old gadget freak emerged from his room and announced: "Mom, I think I am ready to have sex!"

Beverley was taken completely off guard, but a quick thinker and strategist, the real estate sales executive looked her son in the eye and said: "OK son, but there are some things you need to know and be prepared to do before you can start. First, you need to aquatint yourself with condoms, you must be able to use them properly. So let's start by going to the pharmacy and get some."

Find your match

It was about 7 p.m. and mother and son jumped into the car and made a quick dash to the nearest pharmacy. She told Kevin to go over to the cashier and make a selection.

No problem. Kevin selected five different brands, and Beverly paid the bill. The journey home was made in silence with Kevin holding his little 'goodie' bag close to him.

Back at home, Beverly gave him some instructions. "OK Kevin, now you have your condoms. Go inside the bathroom and try them. In order for you to start having sex, one of those need to fit properly. Let's see which brand will work for you."

Kevin had been gone for a good 15 minutes. He finally emerged from the bathroom with a look of utter dejection on his face.

"Well, mom," he said. "I guess I won't be ready to have sex in a long while."

Beverly gave him a hug. "Kevin I knew you would not be, but I wanted you to prove it to yourself."

She said she knew he would not have been ready, based on the fact that he was still a child.

The names were changed to protect the identity of the family.

Give us your comments. Did she handle it well? What would you have done? Also, tell us how you have handled sensitive issues in your family. Sendyour email to phyllis.thomas@gleanerjm.com.