Should I Date a Boy in 8th Grade?
TeenHealth FX wants you to know that you are not the only young teen curious about this! This is a completely personal choice though! Dating in your teens can be a learning experience but it also comes with responsibilities. You would need to continue to prioritize your responsibilities such as school, sports, family things, friends, etc. Sometimes teens have trouble balancing all that but with proper communication with your partner it can be possible!
Again, dating as a young teen is a learning experience so here are some things TeenHealth FX suggests you talk about first or think about, before taking that next step:
- What does a healthy relationship mean to you? If you are unsure talk to a trusted adult or older sibling / family member that can guide, you to an answer.
- Discuss consent with your partner. It is important that both people give consent before taking any steps in a relationship, especially sexual actions.
- Set rules / boundaries in the relationship. An example being, that you still want to prioritize spending time with your friends throughout the week, or studying is extremely important to you so there will be some days you cannot spend time together, so everyone needs to be understanding of that, etc.
- Discuss letting your parents know so rules can be set in each household. Keeping an open and honest communication with your parents can sometimes make things easier.