First Date Don’ts: 
What Every Teen Should Know

First dates are never easy, especially for teens. I mean, we’re new to this whole concept! But don’t worry, the first date is all about getting to know one another, and both guys and girls just want to have a good time. Here are some helpful tips for both guys and girls on how to make that first date memorable in a good way. Happy dating and have fun on your special night out!

What a Guy Shouldn’t Do on a First Date


1. Don’t be gross!

Don’t chew with your mouth open! It’s a serious turnoff to witness all your food being mashed up. Whether you’re eating popcorn at the movies or having a nice dinner, remember your manners.



2. Don’t ignore her!

Make sure to take advantage of the first date to get to know the girl. If it happens to be in a movie theatre, try to get to know one another before or after the film starts. Show your interest by asking questions about her favourite things to do... just don’t be too probing. 


3. Don’t be rude!

Who says chivalry is dead? Be considerate of your date. Remember to hold the door, pull out her chair and please make sure you’re being respectful. Girls like to feel like a priority on a date. Showing her your manners won’t go unnoticed and could be rewarded in the form of another date.



4. Don’t spill your guts!

This is the first date, so it is not expected that you reveal all of your secrets. We would like to hear about your life, but not about your old girlfriends. The first date should be all about getting to know the person in an easy way. There is such a thing as being too forward which could make your date really uncomfortable.



5. Don’t let your date 
pay for everything!

It’s tempting to let your date pay for everything; however, always try to be courteous. Split the bill at least, and if you’re at the movies, offer to buy the snacks if she’s bought the tickets. This will make her feel more at ease with pulling out the wallet when you go for that bite after the movie.



6. Don’t underdress!

We’re not expecting you to put on a black tux, but please do not arrive to a date with jeans down to your knees – we don’t want to see your underwear. We girls like our dates to be clean and dressed respectfully. A plain T-shirt and jeans (that fit!) works perfectly.



7. Don’t just talk 
about yourself!

Of course girls want to hear about your life and interests, but if you have a serious case of word vomit, remember to take a breather and ask about her hobbies as well. This will give her a chance to share something about herself as well as give you an opportunity to think about what you’d like to say next!

What a Girl Shouldn’t Do on a First Date


1. Don’t be late!

No matter how many episodes of Gossip Girl you’ve watched proving otherwise, being fashionably late is unacceptable, especially on a first date. Don’t make him wait for you to get ready. Can you imagine your date being stuck waiting for you with your younger siblings – or perhaps even your parents? Yikes!



2. Don’t complain!

If your guy has put a lot effort into your date and you’re complaining, we might misinterpret this as the date not going well. Take the time to thank your guy for what he’s done, and if you’re really not enjoying something, tell him so in a respectful manner.



3. Don’t ignore him!

Guys like being complimented and they like to talk about their interests. By asking us questions, this will show us that you’re paying attention, and will help loosen up the atmosphere. It’ll be more fun for both of you.


4. Don’t do an extreme makeover before your date!

The first date is not the time to dye your hair or try spray tanning. You want to feel relaxed and like yourself. If you do something drastic right before your date, you won’t always be able to fix it. And we don’t want to feel like we’re on a date with Snooki!



5. Don’t talk about other guys on your date.

A date should be between you and your date, not you and your baggage. Talking about your list of exes shows that you haven’t moved on, and that perhaps you still have feelings for one of them. Focus on the person sitting in front of you.



6. Don’t talk too much.

When your date hasn’t spoken for over 10 minutes and all he’s been doing is nodding, it usually means boredom. Engage with him and try listening to what he has to say. A date is a two-way conversation!



7. Don’t talk trash about other people.

If you can be that mean about someone else, chances are you have the ability to be mean about your date. You shouldn’t have to highlight your features to your guy by putting everyone else in a negative light. Just be yourself and your guy will see your best qualities – minus the scary trash talking.