The right time to let your child date depends on your child's maturity level.
Every child is different so you have to know your child and how they will react in a given situation.

A good place to start "dating" is with co-ed group activities.  Your child will usually let you know when they are interested in having a co-ed party or gathering.  Be brave, you can do it.  Invite ten to fifteen of their friends over, turn on some of their "tunes", provide some snack food and sodas, then get out of the way.  They will have fun just "hanging out."  Make your presence known but you don't have to be in the same room with them.  Be within earshot so that you can re-direct inappropriate activities.  Inviting a couple of their parents over to visit with you during the party works well also.  This gives you an opportunity to meet your child's friends in a relaxed setting.

If you have a young teen child who is chomping at the bit to date, you may decide to let them date at thirteen if they are chaperoned (to, during, and on the way home) from the party. A party date or a movie date could be alright at that age depending on your child.  But, use caution; once that door is opened it is very hard to close it again.

Sixteen is a common "marker" for teenagers to be allowed to "date."  However, you will have to be the final judge of your own child's readiness for dating.  Are they able to express their desires?  Does your child respect your rules?  Are they doing well in school?  Do they have outside activities in addition to "dating?"  Do you know their friends?  Do you know their friend's families?

You and your child will navigate the dating years together.  Remember that they, although of you, are not you.  Observe your amazing kid when they aren't looking and you will know when the time is right for them to start dating.
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Stumble It!
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by Laura Breite - www.MotheringGuide.com
San Diego, CA
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Please direct a courtesy copy to laurabreite@mac.com or snail mail it to:
Laura Breite
www.MotheringGuide.com
13422 Sawtooth Rd
San Diego, CA 92129