[MargaretR]

My son started asking questions as a toddler.

I don't believe in lying to children so I did not avoid the subject with lies about storks and gooseberry bushes. I didn't elaborate but answered each question truthfully when asked.

As he grew older the questions got more complex, so by the time he was in his early teens he needed no 'sit down chat' to advise him of the 'facts of life'.

We had established an ability to discuss the subject without embarrassment, so much so that he related to me the circumstances in which he lost his virginity, and went on to ask about how best to give a woman pleasure.

It is never too soon - they will ask when they are ready to know if you show that the question doesn't embarass.