2012
At what age can you start going to school dances?
July 2012


“At what age can you start going to school dances?” New Era, July 2012, 28

At what age can you start going to school dances?

If it’s the kind of dance where you’re expected to be paired up with a specific person (a date), then you should wait until you’re 16. If it’s the kind of dance where people show up separately and dance with various partners or by themselves (like most Church dances), then you can probably start going to them whenever your parents are willing to let you go. Generally, Church dances are open to those 14 and over. This is a good guideline for you and your parents to consider.

But aside from the question of age, try to find out what these school dances are usually like. For instance, if you find out that people at these dances often use suggestive dance moves or that the music is often offensive or degrading, don’t go. “Attend only those dances where dress, grooming, lighting, lyrics, music, and entertainment contribute to a wholesome atmosphere where the Spirit may be present” (For the Strength of Youth [2011], 23).