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. But it may not be the kind of “dating” youre picturing.

Should a 12 year old be dating?

The general consensus from the group was that 12 seems to be a good age to begin dating. However, Miller finds that, at that age, the word dating means very different things to different people. Middle-schooler Giovanni, said, Some people just hang out with their boyfriend or girlfriend. They hug them and kiss them.