With Valentine’s Day on the way, we turn our thoughts to flowers, gifts and jewelry. But if you have teens in the house, chances are, these things are weighing heavily on their minds as well. Will they get flowers? What should they give? How much to spend? Being a teenager is tough enough without a national holiday tossed in there pushing them to show their devotion through gifts. There are ways you can be understanding and helpful to your dating teens this Valentine’s Day.
Teens starting to date haven’t learned the ins and outs of a give and take relationship yet. You can reinforce the values important to you that concern dating and relationships by discussing them with your teenager and modeling them. Do not be afraid to bring up these issues. Remember that happiness in life is found in the journey. While the topic of teens and dating can make even the most confident parent nervous, you should do your best not to project those anxious feelings when discussing dating – and the rules and limits of dating – with your teen. It is important to give teens their privacy, but always make yourself available for for questions or advice. But try not to read into the questions and begin prying. Teens are notorious for getting themselves into situations that they have a hard time getting out of by themselves; often on dates. Therefore, let your teenager know you are available for a ride home, any time any place, and that you will do so without any consequences to your teenager with the understanding that everyone makes mistakes in judgment. You simply want your teen to be safe. Arguments, drinking, etc can all be a part of a bad dating experience. So, hope for the best, prepare for the worst and be there for your teen.
