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What do you say before saying I love you?

"I want you." These three little words imply more lust than love, but they're important when you first start hooking up -- and especially important after you've been together for a long time. Whether you're in bed together or just sending a text, we all want to feel desired as much as we want to feel loved.

mtv.com - 9 Things To Say Before 'I Love You' (And To Keep Saying After) - MTV

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Saying "I love you" may not be the holy grail of a relationship, but in the beginning it can feel that way. Still, focusing too hard on hearing those three little words puts you at risk for missing out on all the great stuff that comes beforehand. The honeymoon period of a relationship is full of love-like feelings typically expressed in different words (unless you want to risk creeping someone out). Whether you're in a new, exciting relationship or a long-term one, here are sayings that communicate similar sentiments as the L word and should be used just as often — if not more.

"I'm thinking about you."

So many things demand our attention, so when you make it clear that someone is on your mind, they'll feel like a priority. Being desired to the point of being a distraction feels great, no matter how long you've been together.

"I just love spending time with you."

This statement is good for testing the love waters, without going all the way. You get valuable information about where the other person is at, seeing them react to hearing "I love" without immediately following it up with "you." Since it's still a compliment and positive indicator of feelings yet to come, they can't be that disappointed.

"Go do your thing."

We often use this phrase to convey trust ... while avoiding any serious conversations about trust. In both new and long-term relationships, it's a way of setting your better half free, and makes you appear confident and secure -- as long as you don't use it passive-aggressively.

"It's OK."

Deployed after an argument or mistake, these two little words function as a white flag, saying that you care more this person than you do about winning. Everyone makes mistakes and most couples fight, but the mutual ability to let things go comes from caring a lot about each other.

"I'm really happy for you."

Because saying "I'm really proud of you" can make you feel too much like a mom or dad. It tells a person that you're supportive and more inspired than threatened by their accomplishments. You can be their cheerleader when they need it.

"You look great."

Such a small, sometimes even superficial compliment can mean a lot when it comes at the right time from the right person. It reassures one partner they're desired by the other, but also that they'd be desirable to others. It shows you're secure enough to make them feel like they can have anyone they want ... but also that you know the person they want is you.

"I want you."

These three little words imply more lust than love, but they're important when you first start hooking up -- and especially important after you've been together for a long time. Whether you're in bed together or just sending a text, we all want to feel desired as much as we want to feel loved.

"I miss you."

Whether you've been dating for days or years, this tells your partner that their presence is meaningful. "I love you" is great, but it doesn't always capture how you feel in their absence. Missing someone reminds them that even the mundane moments you share do matter.

"You're amazing."

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What is the correct age to fall in love?

It's important to consider your child as an individual. Consider their emotional maturity and sense of responsibility. For many kids, 16 seems to be an appropriate age, but it may be entirely suitable for a mature 15-year-old to go on a date, or to make your immature 16-year-old wait a year or two.

healthline.com - What Age Is Appropriate for Dating: A Guide for Parents - Healthline

When your child mentions dating, or a girlfriend or boyfriend, try to get an idea of what those concepts mean to them. Take note of how your child reacts when you discuss dating. It could be a little uncomfortable or embarrassing, but if your child is unable to even discuss it with you without getting defensive or upset, take that as a sign that they probably aren’t ready.

Other things to consider include the following.

Is your child really interested in someone in particular, or are they just trying to keep up with what friends are doing?

Do you think your son or daughter would tell you if something went wrong?

Is your child generally confident and happy?

Does your child’s physical development match their emotional development?

Be aware that for many tweens and young teenagers, dating amounts to socializing in a group. While there may be interest between two in particular, it’s not double-dating so much as a group heading out or meeting up at the movies or the mall. This kind of group stuff is a safe and healthy way to interact with members of the opposite sex without the awkwardness that a one-on-one scenario can bring. Think of it as dating with training wheels. So, when is a child ready for one-on-one dating? There’s no right answer. It’s important to consider your child as an individual. Consider their emotional maturity and sense of responsibility. For many kids, 16 seems to be an appropriate age, but it may be entirely suitable for a mature 15-year-old to go on a date, or to make your immature 16-year-old wait a year or two.

You can also consider what other parents are doing. Are lots of kids the same as yours already dating in the true sense of the word?

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