When Your Teen Has a Crush: Navigating the Rollercoaster of Emotions

So, your teen has a crush. Suddenly, you’re not just managing their feelings—you’re wrestling with your own.

Maybe you’ve noticed them texting someone non-stop, caring a little more about their appearance, or endlessly mentioning that “really nice” classmate. And now, your mind is in overdrive:

• Will they understand the difference between friendliness and romantic interest?

• How do I teach them about consent when they’re still learning personal space?

• What if someone takes advantage of their trusting nature?

These aren’t just worries—they’re parent worries, and they’re amplified when you’re raising a teen with autism, ADHD, or other disabilities.

The Reality of Teen Romance

Our teens want what everyone wants: to love and be loved. Relationships are a natural part of growing up, even if the journey looks a little different for teens with disabilities.

Closing the door on romance isn’t the answer. Instead, we need to give them the tools, guidance, and support to navigate these new experiences.

Supporting Your Teen Through Crushes and Relationships

1. Create Open Conversations

• Encourage your teen to share their feelings without fear of judgment.

• Ask open-ended questions like, “What do you like about this person?” or “How does talking to them make you feel?”

2. Teach Social and Emotional Skills

• Help them recognize the difference between friendship and romantic interest.

• Reinforce the importance of consent and boundaries in all relationships.

3. Role-Play Scenarios

• Practice how to express feelings respectfully or respond to rejection.

• Go over what healthy relationships look like, emphasizing mutual respect and communication.

4. Talk About Safety

• Discuss the importance of privacy, especially in digital communication.

• Teach them how to recognize and handle red flags, like someone making them uncomfortable or asking for inappropriate information.

5. Be Patient and Understanding

• Remember, this is a learning process for both of you.

• Celebrate their courage in exploring emotions, even if the path isn’t always smooth.

Redefining Romance for Teens with Disabilities

Every teen deserves the chance to experience connection and love. For teens with disabilities, that might mean taking a different road, but the destination is just as meaningful. With the right guidance and a lot of patience, they can navigate relationships in a way that works for them.

Share Your Story

How have you supported your teen through crushes and relationships? What worked, and what challenges did you face? Share your insights in the comments—we’re all figuring this out together.