And what age is appropriate? 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.

At what age can you have a boyfriend?

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.