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family’s values over what is acceptable for affection at what age.” - Laura M. “I have raised my son to be respectful. When- ever he is ready to date, I support him.” -Brad P.
Dating Debacle:
“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. “I think kids have always been rushed to have little boyfriends and girlfriends. It’s weird. I say let kids be kids and when they show an actual interest in having a relationship, discuss what that means to them. -Lyla S. “I hate the idea of my little girl going on dates, because I was a teenage boy once. I also hate the stereotype of the dad being mean to their daughter’s boyfriends. All that
What is the right age for kids to start dating?!
said, 16.” -Mike R.
“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 unchaper- oned makes a difference here.” -Warner L. “16. My son can drive and pay for his own dates—lol!” -Tara I. “I was one of those girls who was strictly not allowed to date, and somehow managed to have a baby at 17. My daughter has heard the good parts of dating, the bad parts, and yes, the consequences. She can date when she is ready.” -Megan F. “In my opinion, 16 years old is a great age to start dating, as long as they’re mature enough.” -Mary Beth S.
BY AMANDA CIANI PHOTO BY FREEPIK.COM
I t is almost time to finally put that 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. shoebox you’ve been holding onto all year to good use—Valentine’s Day! A
edly 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 in- dividual child’s maturity level, their intentions, and their responsibility level.” -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. “Elementary kids “date”, but it really just mean they think each other are cute and fun to play with. It’s innocent. But actual date? Not 16.” -Liz T. “I’m not sure. I feel like 15ish is probably ok for most kids. It’s really important that way be- fore dating you are talking to your kids about bodily autonomy, consent and your particular
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 asked it! I started dating my husband when I was 14, so that’s something I need to take into consid- eration! 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, repeat-
“Too early to think about it!” -Cathy G.
“Never.” -Kyle C.
8 FEBRUARY 2026 | CINCINNATIFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM
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