What are your thoughts on this? * Young people and Dating * Read for Details... What do you think?

So, what do you think about these kids (around 7th grade) "dating"? As they call it... It's their way of saying they like eachother I guess. Most of the time they don't even go out on dates... Well, I just hear a lot of people crushing their spirits, saying they're too young to have a boyfriend, but then other think it's cute. In my opinion I don't see what the harm in having a so called "boyfriend" at that age because it is just pure fun and I think it teaches kids and teens about relationships and dating before they actually date. The most these kids do would be talking on MSN, e-mail, or talking at school, and maybe a group movie. The "relationships" don't really last long I know, but I think it teaches something, and it's not like it's going to mean much. =) So I am just wondering you think of this, and feel free to add as many details as you'd like! =) I'm just wondering if some people think the same way as I do.*Also, if you were a parent of one of these kids what would you think Look, as I said before, I do know what you mean, sadly, but I'm talkin about the 'good kids' lol the ones who focus on their grades. I absolutely agree they should be supervised or at least in a group, you see. That's why I listed group dates and school. I know that anything beyond that should wait until 16 or so.

Public Comments

1. well it really depends on what they are doing like i see 8 year olds dressing like pop stars just to get into these "relationships"
2. Actually, these kids are doing a whole lot more than talking on msn nowadays...Don't you see the questions on here? There are 13-14 year olds asking how to give a proper bl0wjob and are seeking sexual advice. It's not quite as innocent as you paint it. Kids should start dating in high school. I'm only 21, but seriously...I don't agree with you at all.
3. I think that kids dating is a mistake. Just because something is considered "normal" or "popular" doesn't mean that it is the best thing to do. I think that kids should focus on group activities than one on one dating or boyfriend/girlfriend hookups. I understand that kids have crushes as such but to get wrapped up in "love" at this age is far to much emotion for youth to handle. I think that the "teaching" should come from parents and not from other kids who are just bumbling through life as well. I know my view is not popular and my kids would be viewed as "square" for not being able to date but I have to teach my kids that when they are young there are so many other things they need to focus on than to be wondering if Johnny is going to call. They need to establish who they are and not be so wrapped up in trying to impress the opposite sex. Fun can be had by having friendships and doing things in a group.
4. i totally agree with you! i remember going through the "relationships" everything you go through in your life affects/teaches you for the future. as for the parents... i would just warn them to keep an eye on them... for most kids it is very innocent but there are people who do pressure them to push it to the next level... keep it clean and cute && then everything will be ok! =]
5. i would have to say that i disagree with you because 10 years ago in america, and some even now, think it's extremely young for a 17 year old person to be dating. that standard of "too young to date" is getting lower and lower every year. 5 years ago, in japan, 12 and 13 year olds were dating, and adults thought it was "cute", and now, having sex in japan as a middle schooler is considered normal, and nothing more special than just a mere kiss. statistics show that by the time students hit highschool, 80% of the girls are no longer virgins, and the boys, 50%. meaning that on average, each boy is having sex with roughly 3 girls. in my opinion, dating is a matter that should be take quite seriously.
6. wow your so latee well coming from me im 13 in the 8th grade its not wat you think .teens have changed alot . mostly half of the school are filled with teens that have done something sexual.well not mee,but im just tellin you. i wouldent trust your daughter/son going out.cusz theres also alot of peer pressure going on and they also dont know what to do so they would just to it and get it over it for the others to think your cool.
7. I think kids around those ages should wait because its too soon and early. They don't even know what a relationship is all about. Kids these days only wants to know about sex and follow what they see around what other people is doing. I know it seems cute of having one because your young and puppy love or whatever but still yet you should wait it out. And kids these days don't even MSN or email eachother or just talk in school. They do more things and differently. Its a new generation now, things change and the youth is changing. Where i live, kids don't understand whats going on and think relationship is only important. So they basically don't care about school and just keep finding boyfriend or girlfriend after another and another. Having a relationship isn't everything, theres more things in life than having a boyfriend/girlfriend. They should just wait it out till highschool and understant more whats going on. And well as for those kids who have there priorities straight, then i guess its okay for them. They just have to make sure that the person there with isn't someone who would screw up there life.