When your children grow up to become teenagers, there are a few things to look out for, especially because teenagers dating is going to become a reality. Some of these things include the fact that your teenager’s dating shouldn’t be a serious relationship, supervised group dates, keeping the door open, not being too strict, and talking to your teen about dating.
One thing to keep in mind with teenagers dating is that the relationship your teen has with another person shouldn’t be serious. This is because they are minors. When things start getting serious, then things start happening that should only be happening with people of legal age – namely alcohol, drugs and sex. This is why it is important to monitor your teen. You can know where your teen is at through some global positioning satellite apps available for download on each of your phones. That way when you call them, you will be able to tell if they are telling you the truth.
Supervised group dates are a good option, especially if your teen insists on going out with friends. It is important that they follow the rules if they are to go out. Having one or two parents available and present while four or five teens go to the movies or to bowling night is a great idea, especially if the activity is happening at night. Remember your teen is a minor, and without adult supervision, that is still a minor traveling about the city.
Always remember to have your teen keep the door open when his date is in his room. If your teen tries to claim “That’s not fair!”, then you can remind them that not only is it your house, but you let him bring your date over as a guest. So it is only fair and right that he keeps the door open. Not only that, but also because you are the parent and what you say goes!
Don’t be too strict or oppressive on your teen. If you see your teen seething with anger day in and day out every time they pass you in the house, then something is wrong. Talk to your teen and find out what is wrong. Assure them that you love them, you are their parents, are here to protect them, and that they can talk to you about anything. Do some activities together to encourage discussion about dating and over time your teen will be more open about your teenage dating policies.