There is no law about when you are old enough to have a girlfriend or boyfriend, unlike the age of consent. You need to know your child well, because some children may be ready for a relationship at 12 but another not until they are 17.

What age should a kid get a girlfriend?

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.

What age should you start dating at?

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.