Discussing dating safety with that teenager

Although dating is about as natural as possible when those awkward teen years show up, there are still guidelines for safety that every parent must think about. The world, as they say, is a different place than it was a generation ago.

Although I would not latch onto the modern media's obsession with bad news and sensationalism these days, there are still things that need to be brought up, like getting to know someone at school or over the phone before arranging a date -- and then, in public.

Here are some other tips from the U.S. Department of Health.These are very basic, but very important.

• Encourage fun and safe outings, like a picnic, a trip to the mall, or the movies.
• Talk to your child about the importance of speaking up about what makes her comfortable and uncomfortable.
• Make sure she -- and her date -- both understand what time she is to return home.
• Be sure that your child tells you where she's going, who she'll be with, and how you can reach her.