Introduction

As educators, we understand that middle school students may start to experience romantic feelings and develop crushes on their peers. It’s essential to help them navigate these feelings and determine if they are ready to date or begin a relationship. This blog post will discuss the concept of readiness for dating, a no-prep activity to help students reflect on their readiness, discussion questions to stimulate further conversations, and related skills that can support their social-emotional development.

No-Prep Activity: The Readiness Reflection

In this activity, have your students reflect on their current readiness for dating by asking them to consider three aspects: their personal well-being, available time and energy, and compatibility with the person they have a crush on. Encourage students to jot down their thoughts in a journal or discuss their feelings with a trusted friend or adult.

1. Personal Well-being: Ask students to think about their current mental and emotional state. Are they dealing with any significant life stressors or mental health challenges? Remind them that focusing on their well-being is crucial before considering a relationship.
2. Time and Energy: Encourage students to evaluate if they have enough time and energy to dedicate to a relationship. Dating requires communication, planning, and spending time with someone else, and it’s essential to be prepared for that commitment.
3. Compatibility: Lastly, have students reflect on whether their crush is a good fit for them. This includes considering shared interests, priorities, morals, and how they feel about themselves when they are with that person.

Discussion Questions

Use the following questions to engage your students in a conversation about their readiness for dating and relationships:

1. Why is it important to focus on your personal well-being before starting a relationship?
2. What are some ways to manage your time and energy when you are in a relationship?
3. How can you identify if someone is a good fit for you in a relationship?
4. What role do parents or guardians play in your decision to start dating?
5. How can you respect the rules and boundaries set by your parents or guardians when it comes to dating?

Related Skills

Helping middle school students determine their readiness for dating can also support the development of other crucial social-emotional skills, such as:

• Self-Awareness: Understanding and recognizing their own emotions, needs, and values.
• Empathy: The ability to understand and share the feelings of others, especially their potential romantic partner.
• Communication: Developing strong communication skills to express their feelings, thoughts, and needs in a relationship.
• Decision Making: Learning to make responsible choices based on their readiness and personal circumstances.

Next Steps

Now that you have learned about helping middle school students determine their readiness for dating and relationships, consider exploring more resources to support their social-emotional growth. Sign up for free samples of skill-building activities and lessons at Everyday Speech, and continue empowering your students to develop meaningful connections with others.