So many girls are simply inexperienced and naive when it comes to interactions with men. Some are flattered, some are scared, some, sadly, have had experience and have been so sexualized that they may flirt because they think that’s how to get love or approval.
When I was 13 I took swim lessons at the YMCA. One time, while waiting for my mom to pick me up, an older guy – at least 25, maybe older – was sitting in the lobby also. I don’t remember what was said exactly, but I do remember him asking me if I had a boyfriend, saying that I was pretty and should have one, and did I want to go out on a date with him. About that time my mom came through the door. She must have known something was up because she looked at me, then looked at him, then back at me and asked if I was ready. I said yes and we left. In the car, she asked me if he had been talking to me and what he said and I told her. I was pretty naive – I knew that stuff went on between men and women but that was all. I was pretty developed for 13, and while I felt sort of uncomfortable talking to the man, I was also flattered.
As an example of how naive I was and how my mom didn’t explain things: Once when Mom and I were driving home from piano lessons I saw a ‘cow’ playing ‘piggy-back’ with another cow. I pointed it out and Mom just said, “They’re not playing piggy-back.” and that was all she said.
So, I’m guessing there are a number of reasons why a girl wouldn’t tell her age. Also, she simply may not see it as relevant. I wouldn’t have had the courage to stand up to anyone when I was 12. I’d be one of those you read about on the news who disappeared.