Strategies to Keep Your Teenager Safe When Dating

There is an almost universal agreement that youth in the United States grow up faster and experience life events at younger ages than any previous generation. Though the age range may be the same as in the past, early teen dating (13 to 15 years old) is no exception, so more thought and planning is called for in our current complex society.

Teens, enjoy and have fun in groups

Group dating and emphasis on creating strong friendships with both genders should be the primary focus of early teen dating. Friends of a teen are a safe feedback source about dating and can influence for the better by building self-esteem and confidence and enjoyment. In addition, it is critical for a young teen to spend quiet time and truly listen to the inner voice (thoughts) about dating because the voice usually knows what is best for the individual. Fun group activities in public places are recommended for young teen dating, for example movies, mini golf and driving range, video game arcades, carnivals and fairs, beach parties, water parks, biking, hiking, skiing ---- the list is long and fun.

Parents, set limits, be watchful and enjoy

The best time to set dating expectations and talk about family values and proper social conduct is well before it is needed. Teens need and most will welcome parental conversation and parental rules. Dating can be a scary new frontier and stable, caring, understanding and involved adults are a source of comfort and pride to the teen.

Create basic guidelines and expectations for teenagers:

* Insist the teen's date come in to the house to call, even if you have known the person since childhood. This subtly establishes the parental presence and interest in matters, and gives an opportunity to assess the appearance and physical condition of the date at the time.

* Know in advance the details of the group date such as destination, activity, drivers, timetable, names in the group and some cell phone numbers if possible, expected return time.

* Absolutely no alcohol and no drugs are to be used or on the person or in vehicles of any member of the group.

* Make yourself available for casual conversation after the date. There may be things the teen wants you to know or things you should know about.

* Prying, demanding, threatening or intimidation do not work and serve only to set the stage for conflict about future dates.

*Be certain your young teen can call any time for an immediate ride home from any location. Also, provide a back up contact for your teenager in case you cannot be reached immediately. Trustworthy neighbors, an older sibling, a teen favorite aunt or uncle or older cousin, a trusted personal friend are all possible choices.

References:

http://family.samhsa.gov/set/dating.aspx

http://dating.lovetoknow.com/Teen_Dating

http://www.drjillmurray.com