We want to protect our kids from the awkwardness, heartbreak, and intensity of teen dating. But what if avoiding it altogether is actually doing more harm than good?

In this episode, I’m joined by therapists Sissy Goff and David Thomas to make a compelling case for why healthy, age-appropriate dating is necessary—not optional—for emotional and relational development.

We talk about dating as skill development: learning how to communicate, set boundaries, handle rejection, pace relationships, and maintain a sense of self. These are skills kids don’t magically acquire in adulthood—and when dating is delayed or forbidden, many are left unprepared.

We also unpack how parents can stay appropriately involved while we’re still close enough to guide them.

This is a reassuring, practical conversation for all of us parents who feel conflicted—wanting to protect their kids, but also wanting to prepare them for real life. 

Life Happens. Let’s Talk About It. 

Listen in to learn more:

[3:39] The Dating Age Debate 

[11:10] Dating Builds Life Skills

[29:48]Tech, Texts, and Emotional Tangles

[41:15] Healthy Boundaries & Family Rules

In this episode, we are digging into wisdom for starting teen dating conversations, a healthy approach to intimacy, practicing relationship building skills, concerns about teen dating, teaching our kids how they deserve to be treated in friendship and dating relationships, having realistic expectations of teen relationships, relieving pressure from teen dating, healthy boundaries for teen dating, appropriate pacing in relationship and developing social skills, helping teens foster healthy friendships, and modeling healthy relationships for our kids of all ages.

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