Your first boyfriend or girlfriend

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Originally Posted by Betty

I'm curious though - does your "no dating" rule mean no boyfriend - or was a boyfriend fine but they just couldn't be alone together.

No exclusive relationships, even if going together in a group setting, is probably the best way to put it. We also were really happy to drive the group of kids to the movies or the skating rink or whatever they were going to do.

Also - if they went out as a mixed group, how could you be sure they weren't just saying that upfront and then not getting some alone time in?

You can't be sure. We did pay attention to who our daughters were IMing with or talking on the phone with. We also reinforced how this was the time to meet many kids.

The #1 thing with teens is to give them your time. Let them know you are keeping tabs on them - not spying or prying but keeping tabs. Teens want you less than younger children but they need you even more.

Good luck on your decisions, all parents of teens out there!