“A lady’s imagination is very rapid; it jumps from admiration to love, from love to matrimony in a moment.” If that doesn’t explain every 13 years old in this world then I don’t know what does! Being a parent is pretty much like being on a roller-coaster. It’s exhilarating, it’s fun, but oh so scary. There’s the bonding and the sharing, but then there’s also the screaming, the door slamming, the awkward silences and “the talk”. Yep, parenting a teenager is one hell of a ride. Read on to know more about how to deal with a love-struck teenager and knock some sense into him/her.

Keep an Open Mind

Just when you thought you could finally have a breather now that your baby is a teenager, they barge home one day and announce that they’re “in love” with the most amazing guy/girl in their class. What’s a parent to do? Well, keeping an open mind helps. Accept the simple fact that your kid has indeed grown up and can make his own decisions. Of course, you’re going to be there for him when reality hits him hard. However, don’t confine your kid to your prejudices; don’t discourage them from taking the leap. Don’t dismiss or ridicule your kid (intentionally or unintentionally) no matter how unrealistic their crushes are. Your child’s feelings are real and should be respected.

Parents have to be Preachy (sometimes)

Discuss the importance of finding balance in the relationship. Most teens get a bit too involved in their infatuation, so much so that they ignore their academics. As a parent, you may have to impose some restrictions on the telephones, internet activity and set a deadline. Teenagers often get so caught up in their feelings (and hormones) that they fail to see the risks involved. Violence, cybercrime and other legal problems can leave a lasting impact on their impressionable minds. Don’t try to scare your kids on what’s out there, but prepare them for it instead.

What To Do If The Situation Goes Out Of Hand?

Well, ideally you’d want to take control before things get out of hand. If you have even an iota of doubt that the relationship has gone a bit too far (maybe they’re indulging in sexual activities), then don’t hesitate from stepping in. Talk to them about the birds and the bees, about condoms and contraception.

Try getting the boyfriend/girlfriend’s family involved as well. Also, conduct a thorough background check on the guy/girl your kid is dating; it’s easy enough to do a generic check on Facebook, and a more specific check on a background check portal like CheckPeople. They should be close to your child’s age, preferably attending the same school and not have a history of legal problems.

Setting Some Ground Rules

Set ground rules; such as putting limits on weekend trips, all-night parties, and excessive Internet chatting or telephonic romance. Expensive gifts should be a no-no. Help your child understand the idea of love and sex at an emotional level. Encourage the idea of balance in your child’s life. Look for odd patterns in your child’s behavior and make sure it’s not linked to her romantic adventures.

The Bottom Line

Oh, to be young and in love is not all rainbows and sunshine! Teenage romance is constantly oscillating between the highs of infatuation and the lows of rejection. Don’t dread the day your teen starts to date, it is inevitable. Instead, encourage a transparent, healthy communication channel so that they trust you and open up about their feelings.