How dating savvy are you?

1. At what age would you let your teen start dating?

a. Possibly when they are 35. Possibly.

b. When they show maturity in other aspects of their lives and I feel like they can handle a relationship.

c. They’ve been dating since kindergarten.

2. What are your expectations of your teen’s boyfriend/girlfriend?

a. I have them do a thorough background check including credit and any criminal record.

b. That they hold the same
values and goals that are important to my family.

c. That they show up and have a pulse.

3. Do you insist on meeting your teen’s date before they go out?

a. Yes, we do a lie detector test as an ice breaker.

b. Yes, I like to have them in for an informal get to know you.

c. Nah...they usually just honk from the curb and my kid goes running.

4. Do you know where your teens go on their dates?

a. Yes...I go with them.

b. Yes, I always make sure to know their plans ahead of time.

c. No, they’re out the door
before I even think to ask.

5. Do you wait up for your teen?

a. I just said I was on the date with them, we are home by 8:30 so they can get proper rest.

b. Yes, no matter how tired I am I like to talk with them about how their evening went.

c. I have no idea what time they get in, I’m usually asleep.

6. Have you spoken with your teen about setting boundaries?

a. Of course, they aren’t even allowed to hold hands, and I make sure they stick to it!

b. Yes, we sat down and talked about what limits they should set. I advised them but they picked their own boundaries.

c. Too awkward, they’ll figure it out on their own.

7. Have you talked to your kids about abstinence?

a. Absolutely, in fact I’m
looking into chastity belts online.

b. Yes, I’ve made sure they know that I expect them to wait to have sex until they are married.

c. I’ve mentioned it, but I also told them that if they couldn’t wait to make sure they use protection.

8. If you are single yourself, are you practicing healthy dating habits of your own?

a. I wouldn’t even think about dating until my child has finished college.

b. Yes, I make sure my first priority is my child, but I am looking for a healthy relationship and do practice
abstinence myself.

c. Sure! I date all the time and always make sure my date pays!

9. Does your teen feel comfortable in coming to you with any dating questions or problems?

a. Of course, I am a very understanding person!! Why do you ask? Did they say something?

b. We talk a lot. I try to make it very easy for them to come to me.

c. I hardly ever see my teen, let alone talk to them!

Answers:

If you answered mostly A’s:

You may need to scale back a bit as there is a fine line between attentive parent and overbearing jailor. You definitely take an interest in your child’s life, but may need to help empower them to make some of their own decisions.

If you answered mostly B’s:

You are a well rounded parent who keeps a good balance between being an authority figure and letting your child learn how to be independent. You do a great job of keeping the lines of communication open while still establishing trust.

If you answered mostly C’s:

You may need to do a little more active parenting in order to help your teen navigate the tricky waters of dating. Remember, your teen is new to all this and can really use your insight and advice. You also might want to try to look at your own dating life to make sure you are setting a good example.