Hello!

What is the protocol for ‘meeting the parents’ of your son or daughter’s ‘girlfriend/boyfriend? The kids involved are late teens, fairly independent, have been going out for several months but have just asked that we parents meet up. This all seems a bit formal to me. The kids have met respective parents, but they just want us parents to meet. Does sound a bit ‘formal’ as if cementing the relationship to another level. Advice please!


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  • I think that’s really cute! I’d just make it an informal meeting for a coffee or something and maybe a chat with your child about what they’re wanting to get out of the meeting?


  • I think it’s kind of sweet and shows appreciation for the parents. You can make it informal, an evening of bowling for example could be nice


  • I think this is Amazing ???? just make it casual. I really hope my son initiates this when he’s older


  • I like the idea of an informal meal at your local hotel or restaurant. Great way to meet up, but you don’t have to be best friends.


  • Do something low key, like a picnic at the park.


  • I think it is nice and polite. Especially in this day and age.


  • Yes, I think they are signalling that they want to go to the next level and that they feel comfortable with the parents meeting each other.


  • I dont think it needs to be anything super serious but a casual lunch out to meet up and trade contact details is always a good idea. Its the kids saying we are serious about each other but it doesnt mean that they are going to be getting married next week.


  • I think it’s a great idea. I hate how mobile phones has taken away the link between our children’s friends and their parents. I’m all for this.


  • They are late teens and it has been several months. In all honesty what would it hurt? Maybe you could make friends.


  • I think it’s a great idea. Maybe just catch up together at a local cafe or pub for a casual lunch. Keep it simple. It’s always nice to know the people your kids are talking about.


  • I don’t think its too formal, just a nice this to do. It doesn’t mean marriage, just getting to know who the parents are and building some trust. When my daughter starts dating, I’d like to meet her partners parents especially if she’s spending time there or he’s spending time at our place.


  • This is a nice idea and shows a good level of trust from the teenagers. Maybe just do a dinner at the local pub, nothing too formal. But definitely a great idea.


  • Not at all, my mum wanted to meet the parents of my boyfriends when I was growing up (if it was serious) so this may be a push from the parents not from the kids at all. I think it’s good if they are serious, they may make it through the years together so if the next level is what they are aiming for then just be supportive and keep the parental meeting casual like a bbq with a few drinks.


  • I wouldn’t want to get too close with the other parents just in case the relationship fails, sorry if that’s a bit negative. But I think it’s nice to casually meet them. I’d want to know where my child is staying at times and what kind of family they are staying with. I’d expect the same with just their friends. I meet my husband when I was 17 so it probably doesn’t seem as strange to me maybe? I feel like now if you don’t meet them or say you don’t want to it might upset the kids too.


  • I think its fantastic and respectful. This is very common in my culture and I think its lovely that your teen is getting you involved. I would ve honoured if my sons were excited for me to meet their partners parents. I applaud your teen and their partner.


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