Dear BeingGirl Experts,

I am about to start my freshman year! I'm not so nervous about making friends, but I sometimes think I am waaaay too young to date! But I know that freshman through senior years is where dating begins. Or does it? Can you help me? I know I'm mature and have a great personality and think I'm ready, but when I discuss it with my mom I feel all young again, like I'm too immature for it all...but I don't think I am...HELP! I don't know when to start dating!

Felicia

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Dear Felicia,

Relax, there are a lot of things ahead of you in high school, and you'll handle them one at a time. You will meet people in your classes and by joining in activities you are interested in. Take things slowly at first and get to know your new school along with the types of activities available. Over the first semester you will begin to be more comfortable and will begin finding your way around the buildings as well as a better idea of the kids you want to hang out with.

Many teens begin dating in high school and many others don’t. There isn’t a right age to start dating. This is individual and is a decision you and your parents need to agree on. When you will want to date has a lot to do with when you meet a guy you are interested in. Most adults will tell you not out focus on one person as a teen because you will end up spending all your energy and miss out on the best parts of your teen years.

Your parents can be helpful as you mature and find your feelings begin to change about guys.

Good luck,

Your BeingGirl Experts