Start Relating BEFORE they start dating...
- Relationships are unique. What do you think makes a relationship good or bad?
- Mutual respect should be a key part of any relationship. What are some ways you think a dating partner shows respect?
- Everyone has a right to communicate how they want to be treated by others. How can you tell your friends what’s ok and what’s not ok?
- Everyone deserves to be in a healthy relationship. What makes a relationship good or healthy?
- It can be fun to call, text, and message with your friends. But sometimes you might feel like you need a break. How can you tell your friend or someone you like it’s too much?
- Feeling pressured to send nude or embarrassing pictures or messages is never okay. How would you respond if this were happening to you?
- Encourage your youth to make a list of the ways he/she wants to be treated and the qualities they want in a dating partner to use for their own “roadmap” to successful a relationship.
- Your teen’s definition of “abusive behaviors” or “violence” might be different than your own. Talk to them about the difference between healthy and unhealthy relationship behaviors.
- Encourage your youth to trust their instincts. If a situation does not feel right, let them know they can talk to you and you will listen and help him/her find the right solution.
- Get to know your youth’s communication world. Ask to become their friend on Facebook or other social networking sites. It is important YOU know where they are both in the real world and the digital world.
- Have you ever heard your own parents’ words come out of your mouth? Your children are listening to you even when their words and body language say differently. You have the power to influence your youth. What messages are you sending them about how they deserve to be treated in a dating relationship?
