Russian. If speaking to a child, would you use the familiar "you" instead of the formal?

Question

The child is 13 years old. Would you say "ВЫ" or "ТЫ" when meeting the child for the first time?

I know which one is more polite, obviously, but since it's a child, I'm not sure that the formal is necessary.

Answer 1

It would depend on how old YOU are. If you're comfortable with the familiar form, you can use it, especially if you're much older than the child. If you are not too much older and would prefer others to use the formal form with you, then use it with the 13 year-old. I'm fairly certain a 13 year-old does NOT expect an older person to use the formal form when speaking with him/her.

Answer 2

At thirteen, one has become a teenager and some are extremely mature at that age. I would start with the formal address and then ask if they would prefer the familiar.

Answer 3

i think using the formal shows respect for a first meeting better than non-formal. its always about first impressions. i heard that talking to babies like you would an adult helps them to understand faster.

Answer 4

Depending of the situation, of course.
In official setting, even a teenager would appreciate "Vy"
In normal , casual conversation "Ty" is quite all right and more appropriate.

Answer 5

Definitely ty.