Mom worries about 11- year- old daughter who acts grown up

DEAR ABBY: My 11- year- old daughter, “Gwen,” just started middle school. She makes good grades, but she’s strong- willed. Do kids grow up instantly when they start middle school? She wants to know if she can have boyfriend. I told her not until she’s 15. Now she’s flirting with girls who ask her out. I told her to stay away from them, not because they are lesbians but because they are not good girls. They are always in trouble. Gwen says I’m too strict, and if I don’t stop, she will run away. I adopted her at birth ( it was an open adoption), and she recently asked me if I am going to place her for adoption. She was worried I would. I am concerned she is hanging out with the wrong crowd. Any advice? – SAN ANTONIO MOM DEAR MOM: If you do not to want Gwen to date until she is older, that’s your prerogative as her parent. The gender of the person isn’t the issue. Because you think she is hanging out with the wrong crowd, my advice is to make sure she is so busy she doesn’t have time to spend with them. Involve her in activities outside of school – sports, scouting, music or art. And be sure she knows you are her mother and nothing she could do will lessen your love for her. DEAR ABBY: I am a 29- year- old woman who has just been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. It has been a rough road, and I’m lucky to have such a supportive group. My issue is, when people find out, I get comments such as, “Wow, you look so good.” or suggestions on how I should “cure” my MS. The most hurtful one was that it’s all in my head. While I appreciate that folks care and want to offer help, I find their comments offensive and hurtful. How do I respond tactfully, but also convey they should think twice before they say these things? – UPSET IN OHIO DEAR UPSET: All you need to do is smile and say firmly that you are under a doctor’s care and are satisfied with the treatment you are receiving. And, heaven forbid, if another individual tells you your MS is “all in your head,” remember just because a jackass brays does not mean you have to pay attention. a