For instance, you may want to go to a party this weekend but your parents don’t typically let you go out. Tell them they can have the other parents’ number, you’ll be home by curfew, and you’ll keep your phone on you at all times.
For instance, if you want to get on birth control but your dad is totally against it, you might talk to your mom instead. She might be willing to help you get on the Pill without your father’s consent.
For instance, perhaps you have been dealing with depression for a while, but your parents don’t “believe in mental illness. ” Write them a letter talking about your experience and how it affects you. Include outside information from trustworthy sources as needed to help you explain your experience. Give them the letter late at night or right before you go to school so they have time to process it away from you.
Say “Dad, I want to talk to you about something. When would be a good time for us to talk?”
If your issue is urgent, tell them immediately. For instance, if you are in trouble or are considering harming yourself, tell them as soon as possible.
Know when tears are inappropriate. If you need to tell your mom that you’re pregnant, crying is understandable. If you want to go to the beach with your friends, however, tears may be a bit overboard.
Calmly open the chat with a statement like, “I feel that it’s unfair that I couldn’t go to the party Friday night. "
Say something like “I got a speeding ticket because I was about to be late for my curfew. I’m sorry. I know this will cost a lot of money, but I already talked to my supervisor and she’s going to give me extra shifts on the weekends. I understand if I need to be punished, though. ”
Say “When I have to stay home on Saturday nights instead of hanging out with Marissa, I feel sad and like I’m missing out on time with my friends. ”
For instance, perhaps your parents don’t want you going out with your significant other because they are fearful that you’ll make a bad decision. Spend time with your SO along with your parents until they feel more comfortable with you two going out alone.
For example, if you want to get a tattoo and your parents can’t understand why, then suggest that if you still want the same tattoo in six months you can talk reopen the conversation again. Or if you want to go to a college that’s not local, suggest taking a tour with your family.
For instance, if your mom told you you can’t get a tattoo, don’t sneak and get one. Wait until she approves it or until you have the money and are no longer living with her to do so.
Always be where you say you’ll be and do as you said you would do. Go above and beyond to show your parents that you are responsible.
Say something like “Hey Dad, have you thought any more about me going on the Senior Trip since we last talked? The money is due in a couple of weeks. ”
