Reply #3: I didn't start dating until I was 16

[Scooter24]

mostly by choice. I was so involved in school and other programs that there was no time to think about it. haha...

However, I did come out at 16, and my mom (being a pediatric surgeon) gave me a very thorough and extensive talk about safe sex, waiting until I find love, etc. I had a boyfriend at 17 but we sadly ended it when we split to go off to college.

I think dating at 14-15 is ok, but keep it simple. A movie, a trip to the mall, maybe drop them off at a theme park for the day. But I agree with you, 16 would be a good age to let them venture off alone.