Dear parents of teens and preteens:

If your child asks how to break it off with someone or how to tell someone they are not interested, please do not suggest they say they want to be “FRIENDS.” It is a bogus way out, and the person may not be mature enough to know that means there is no interest. They could assume that by being a “friend” there is a chance romance may blossom. And in some cases, ugly situations arise because they will demand to spend time with them because that’s what “friends” do. I also have to acknowledge there are people with mental health issues or who come from bad environments. They can easily misinterpret the offer of friendship and act out if things don’t go as they hoped and cause your child, you, and everyone around them a lot of grief.

In memory of my young friend Brooke, who lost her life to someone who wasn’t satisfied with and didn’t understand the meaning of “friends.” You are gone but not forgotten!!