Aquamarine" smartly circumvents the inherent problem of making a movie geared to preteen girls. Doubtless they already have boys on the brain, causing sensations in other parts of their anatomy. But it would be unseemly, not to mention R rated, to show serious smooching at such a tender age.
The movie has a sweetness and innocence that makes it near perfect entertainment for its target audience. Parents don't have to worry that their daughters will come away with any ideas they didn't come in with.
At the same time, "Aquamarine" avoids seeming coy and doesn't flinch from taking on serious issues that illustrate that life isn't all fluff even for the young. Hailey is from a broken home, and her longing for her father is palpable when she holds up a framed photo of her family pre-divorce. The untimely deaths of Claire's parents have caused her to withdraw from life and cling to Hailey. Claire is distraught because Hailey, not only her best friend but her only friend, is about to move away from their small Florida town.