This week we're talking about how modern teen "dating" has changed—starting with the word itself (it's called "talking" or "hanging out" these days), where today's teens are meeting romantic partners, and how they tend to communicate. We also explain how and why conversations about boundaries, consent, self-worth, and emotional safety should begin earlier than you might think.

We also discuss:

Why today’s teens are dating later but navigating more online pressure

How to encourage to kids maintain other friendships while dating
What to do when you dislike your child’s romantic partner

Here are links to some of the resources mentioned in the episode:

Emily Baumgaertner Nunn for the NYT: A Predictor of a Good Social Life? Your Parents.
Children's Hospital of Richmond at VCU blog: Is your teen ready to date? 6 things to think about
Rachel Ehmke for Child Mind Institute: Teens and Romantic Relationships

Check out our Fresh Take with Ash Brandin, the Gamer Educator, who has great tips on keeping kids safe online!

What Fresh Hell is co-hosted by Amy Wilson and Margaret Ables.

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