According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, kids start dating at an average age of 12 and a half for girls and 13 and a half for boys. Every teen — or preteen — is different, though, and your child might be ready sooner or later than their peers.

Why do teenagers start dating?

Some kids are more overt or vocal about their interest in dating but most are paying attention and intrigued by the prospect of a romantic life, even if they keep it to themselves. According to the Department of Health and Human Services, dating helps teens build social skills and grow emotionally.

How long do teenage relationships normally last?

By age 16, relationships last an average of two years, writes Fogarty. Most long-term relationships do not occur early, and during the teen years, you are likely to see group dating, according to Melanie Greenberg, Ph. D., in the article titled The Neuroscience of Relationship Breakups, in Psychology Today.

At what age should a girl start dating?

The American Academy of Pediatrics notes that on average, girls begin dating as early as 12 and a half years old, and boys a year older.