Though parents have many enjoyable and engaging conversations with their children, some topics can feel more difficult to approach. Conversations about friendships, attraction, dating, boundaries, and physical affection may leave parents wondering: What do I say? When do I begin? What if I say the wrong thing? Often, this hesitation comes from not knowing which words to use, or even how to begin. For many parents, teen dating can feel like a topic that arrives too soon.

Being a parent is one of life’s greatest blessings, but it can also be one of its most challenging roles, especially as children grow into their own identities. Many parents feel anxious about initiating difficult conversations with their teens. These topics are often labeled “taboo,” creating the misconception that they should be avoided or discussed only in private, if at all. As a result, parents are frequently left unsure of how, or when, to begin these important conversations.