“Start a conversation about dating and keep it going,” said Buddenberg.  “Ideally, you should start at the late grade school age, but it's never too late.  Don't assume your daughters know what you think or expect and don't assume you know what she's thinking, either.  Nothing trumps parent-child communication and love.”

“Kids were telling us they'd like to talk about dating with their parents but are afraid they'll ‘freak out.’  Simultaneously, parents were telling us they'd like to talk with their kids, but don't know where to start and are afraid the kids don't want to listen,” said McGee.  “Research, like our personal experience with kids, says kids do want to hear from their parents, but parents aren't always talking.”

The authors used personal experiences involving lessons learned as teachers, mothers and daughters.  “We are writing from our experiences. I have two teenage daughters of my own,” said Buddenberg.  “It’s amazing how much healthier teen dating relationships are when parents simply take the time to get involved.  Just asking questions, watching behaviors and setting ground rules can make a huge difference.  We want to show parents how they can make this aspect of teen life less chaotic and confusing.”

The book includes excerpts of real dating stories.  “Stories are what people relate to,” said McGee, who along with Buddenberg is Co-Director for the Center for Adolescent and Family Spirituality at Boys Town.

This book is the third collaborative effort between Buddenberg and McGee.

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