The idea of your teen dating can strike fear into the hearts of the parents in question. You've been around the block and know that things can go wrong in the dating scene. After all, you were once a teenager!
Maybe you remember coming home crying because your date turned out to be too aggressive, or made a mean remark about your outfit. But not all your dates turned out that way. Some dates were thrilling, with compliments and fun from beginning to end. So it's not all bad news.
There will be ups and downs, and your job as a parent is to be there for your teen and guide them in this new interaction with their peers.
The best preparation for teen dating starts at home. Young people base their expectations on the model you provide. Long before teen dating comes into their consciousness, kids see how their parents interact. Issues like respect for each other, compromise, privacy and assertive behavior are demonstrated at home between parents. When you and your partner have arguments, they are usually resolved in a compromise, with a little give and take on both sides. These are social skills that will help them in the teen dating scene.
Approach teen dating with confidence. Giving supportive guidance without being intrusive and keeping them safe are your primary goals. Here are a few ideas to get your teen started in the dating scene.
Encourage double dates or group activities for starters. This makes it easier for your child to get into the swing of teen dating. A double date at the county fair allows both girls and boys to be more relaxed with one another and just have fun. Both boys and girls have someone of their own gender to chat with if self-conscious or nervous feelings surface. A group of boys and girls going bowling or to the skating rink is another good choice. It will help them build confidence in teen dating.
Teens are very sensitive about the subject of teen dating. Be careful to let them know you'll be there for them without fostering an atmosphere of intrusiveness on your part. Respect their privacy. There will be times when they won't want to talk about every little thing. If you respect their privacy, they'll eventually come to you for your advice and opinions.
When the opportunity arises, have a frank talk with your child about some of the down sides of teen dating, and help them establish limits. If they find themselves in a situation where alcohol or drugs are present, let them know these components lead to being taken advantage of or being arrested. Let them know these situations will come up and that they can feel free to call you any time for a ride home if they feel uncomfortable. Be sure to emphasize that they'll not be punished.
Put your best foot forward in guiding your teen, and chances are their teen dating experiences will be happy ones.
