It’s not always clear when to set the particular ground rules for our children. Of course, some are obvious and even mandated by the government. We don’t get an opinion on when our children are able to drive, they can apply for a license and begin learning when the right age comes.

However, for many other considerations, you have a choice. When do you provide their first smartphone? What about when they’re able to watch mature-rated movies? Another interesting topic is that of piercings. Of course, once they become eighteen, they’re able to do what they want, be that considering their first tattoo or getting a traditional or unique piercing. As long as they do that responsibly, with good practice such as helix piercing aftercare, most parents can accept it.

But before that age, it’s not easy to decide where the line is. In this post, we hope to make it easier for you by not dictating your choice, but offering a few warm recommendations instead:

Simply Talk With Them About It

When your child expresses an interest in getting a piercing, the first thing to do is to sit down and have a real conversation with them. You can ask them why they want it and what it means to them, of course, limited to the obvious earlobs for now. Listen to their reasons without judgment and try to understand their point of view. It’s an opportunity for you to talk about the responsibilities that come along with it, from choosing a safe place to go to following through with the proper aftercare and what that might mean. Of course, some limitations do exist; you may say no for their first piercing to be near the lip or eyebrow. It’s best to recommend an ear piercing before a nose one, just so they know how to care for it. However, it’s best to wait until you can have a constructive conversation with them.

Understand The Commitment

A lot of kids see a piercing as a fun accessory, but they might not think about the work that goes into keeping it clean and healthy. It’s a good time to make sure they understand this is not a one-time thing. A piercing requires caring with a daily routine for weeks or months, depending on the location. You can talk with them about what that entails, like the risk of infection and the importance of following instructions from the piercer. This helps them understand the difference between wanting a piercing and being ready for the responsibility of having one, even if their friends all have them.

Consider Their Maturity

For many parents, the decision about a piercing comes down to a child’s maturity level, not just their age. You might think about how they handle other responsibilities in their life. Are they good at keeping track of their things or remembering to do their chores without being asked? If so then that’s a great sign. If not, then perhaps you might set them a test like being responsible and doing chores for the summer. It can be a good indication of whether they are ready for the commitment of a piercing. When you look at it this way, you’re making a decision based on their individual character, not just a number on the calendar, and that’s pretty great parenting.

With this advice, you’ll be sure to figure out the right recourse for you as a parent.