It is almost time to finally put that shoebox you’ve been holding onto all year to good use—Valentine’s Day! A time of sweet little notes, shoe boxes turned into card receptacles, conversation hearts, chocolates and expressing love to those special someones in our lives. Some parents may look forward to hearing all about their child’s first crush, while others may dread that first heartbreak. Puppy love is innocent and sweet, but teen romances come with more considerations and yes, concerns. 

Simply strolling the seasonal aisle and seeing boxes of Valentine’s got us to thinking… 

 

At what age will you let your child “date”? 

 

“This feels like a trick question, and I am the one who asked it! Haha. I guess I can’t really tell my sons they can’t have girlfriends when they are teenagers, because I started dating my husband when I was 14! I also knew girls when I was growing up who weren’t “allowed” to date, and I will let you in on a secret. They had boyfriends. AND they snuck around and worst of all, repeatedly lied to their parents. So personally, that’s not an option in my parenthood journey. My official answer is: I think it depends on the individual child’s maturity level, their intentions, their responsibility level and also how honest they are with their parents.”
-Amanda C., Associate Editor of Cincinnati Family Magazine

“My kids are grown now, but it was 16—same as it was for me.”
-Pam J.

“14 with a group of friends like a movie, sports event, or school activity.”
-Rhonda F.

“I’m not sure. I feel like 15ish is probably ok for most kids. It’s really important that way before dating you are talking to your kids about bodily autonomy, consent and your particular family’s values over what is acceptable for affection at what age.”
– Laura M.

“15-16 for a movie or dinner date.”
-Melissa C.

“16, preferably 30!! 😂”
-Katie H.

“My boys had drop off/pick up dates at 14-15 and real dates at 16. I do think it varies by circumstance though. Open communication is key!!”
-Melanie A.

“Do school dances count as dates? Love is in the air at a school dance, and those start as early as 7th grade! Chaperoned or unchaperoned makes a difference here.”
-Warner L.

“16. My son can drive and pay for his own dates—lol!”
-Tara I.

“In my opinion, 16 years old is a great age to start dating, as long as they’re mature enough.”
-Mary Beth S.

“Too early to think about it! 🙁”
-Cathy G.

“Never.”
-Kyle C.