When you’re growing up, your body goes through weird changes. Your voice is dropping, you’re getting hair in weird places and all of a sudden you really like that girl in 3rd period Algebra. When you’re going through these changes, you’re gonna want to talk to someone about it. Your family really should be the first line of defense.
“My parents?” you say? Actually, yes!
Parents can be pretty lame sometimes, I know. Why would you want to talk to someone that tells you to wash the dishes and clean your room literally every chance they get? Your parent or guardian is actually the best person to talk about your problems with because they’ve been there too. It’s hard to visualize since it seems like they have no idea what you’re going through, but it’s true. Your parents have a wealth of knowledge about being a teen that you just don’t know about yet!
“So how do I bring it up?”
Well, there’s no “perfect time” to talk to your parents about having romantic relationships, but it’s best to talk in private and when you have plenty of time to do it. Remember that your parents might not be super excited to talk to you about the idea of dating, but they will warm up to the idea over time, and they might even give you tips on how to ask her out.
If you are already dating that girl from 3rd period Algebra (congratulations!), don’t keep it a secret from your parents either. Tell your parents some of the reasons why you like her, and maybe share some of the sweet things she’s done for you. Build trust with your parents by discussing your new relationship with them, and talking with them if you are having any problems in your relationship.
If you’re a parent, make sure you check out talkwithyourkids.org for tips to initiate the conversation with your children.