The Emotional Roller Coaster of Your Child's First Relationship

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Everett

After years of teasing them about a schoolboy (or girl) crush, your child has finally found love. Or, at least, the tween definition of it. Whether you found out from them or their Facebook relationship status, you aren't quite sure how to feel about the big news. On the one hand, you're excited for them to experience all the things that come with having a boyfriend or girlfriend — the first date, first dance, first kiss. At the same time, you're scared to see them deal with relationship downfalls — the first fight, the first breakup, the first heartbreak.

It's definitely a mixed bag, but we have the emotional breakdown to help you get through your child's first relationship (and all the ones that will follow).

01
You beg for details on the new boy or girl.
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You beg for details on the new boy or girl.

02
To which you receive a snarky, unsatisfying response.
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To which you receive a snarky, unsatisfying response.

03
When it's time for their first date, you get excited.
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When it's time for their first date, you get excited.

You're finally getting a glimpse at their guy or gal! Source: NBC

04
You remind them to behave as they leave the car.
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You remind them to behave as they leave the car.

05
You're all smiles, until you see this . . .
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You're all smiles, until you see this . . .

Source: ABC Family

06
And this!
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And this!

Source: ABC

08
You eavesdrop when they're on the phone.
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You eavesdrop when they're on the phone.

And try not to squeal when you hear them say, "I love you."

09
You master the art of barging in to closed rooms.
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You master the art of barging in to closed rooms.

Source: Netflix

10
After a few months, you decide to have "the talk" with your child.
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After a few months, you decide to have "the talk" with your child.

Which is awkward, but successful. Source: Paramount Pictures

11
Despite all your concerns, you are happy that your child is happy and in love.
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Despite all your concerns, you are happy that your child is happy and in love.

12
Until the breakup.
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Until the breakup.

Source: FOX

13
That's when your mama claws come out.
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That's when your mama claws come out.

15
Soon enough, the others come around, and you're forced to go through this all over again.
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Soon enough, the others come around, and you're forced to go through this all over again.