Hooking Up: What Does That Mean Exactly?

You must have heard these words by now. And if not, let me apprise you of the some of the various ways this phrase is used: “We hooked up after school to study,” “We hooked up at the party last night,” “He hooked me up with the right …” or “Let’s hook up later.”

It doesn’t mean “Hooked on Phonics” for sure!

Essentially, depending on their age and where they live, this phrase has various definitions. That being said; how does a “boyfriend” or “girlfriend” impact your student’s life? They can communicate with various forms of technology. Clearly, texting is a BIGGIE!  You wonder will they ever be able to have a conversation with their “hook up?”

Time is a commodity, that being said, how much time is spent on the “friend.” Boyfriends and girlfriends are part of growing up. It can develop at any age and at varying levels of commitments. It could be just a “hook up” that lasts a short time. And for some, they may not have this “relationship” until college. Either way it is a journey that many kids of all ages will learn from.

Creating a dialogue with your child is crucial. Since children at any early age can have a “special” friend in their life, the conversation needs to be age appropriate. If your child is 7 years old, it could be as simple as holding hands.

Purchasing cell phones for young children have become more common place. Some believe it is a safety factor and a way to communicate. Texting can be benign in some cases but, as they become older be careful of the “sexting.”

Complicated definitely comes to mind on all of these subjects. I always refer to common sense to guide us, and with many of my clients; guidance from experts is helpful.

Set guidelines regarding homework and other areas so they can enjoy and learn from their experiences. Remain cognizant of the fact, each age level will require a different guideline that needs to be openly discussed.

Wow, timely! As I am finishing this article, NBC’s, “Today Show” just had a segment on college websites that “Hooks Up” college students to one another for casual ... Obviously, the open discussion is relative to students in college for this exact reason.

Undoubtedly, “Hooking Up” is a slang phrase we need to take note of.

Vicki Kalmus is a certified teacher and writer on ways students and parents organize their time and improve study techniques. Even the brightest of students can lose their way. She writes her columns with all ages of students in mind.