What was your childhood like? How would your parents have described you when you were in high school? What advice would you give to yourself when you were my age? Which family tradition did/do you love the most?[1] X Research source

Don’t stop at asking their opinion — ask them why. Understanding why they take a certain position can give you more understanding on how your parents reason through things and how they see the world.

You could say something like, “Mom, the funniest thing happened to me today, and I want to tell you about it. " Or you could try, “Dad, I’m so glad you’re home! I taught our dog a new trick today that I want to show you. "

Try asking about career advice. You could say, “Dad, how did you decide what you wanted to do with your career? I’m feeling lost. " Or you could try something like, “Mom, I feel like my friend Annie is upset with me. What do you think I should do?”

For example, you could say, “Grandma, do you have any funny stories about Dad from when he was little?” Or, you could ask your mom’s friend, “Sue, do you think that my mom likes her job?”

Go out to eat. Go bowling. Play mini golf. Play a board game. Do an arts and crafts project, like painting pottery.

Cooking or baking Hiking Biking Listening to a book on tape Playing musical instruments with them Traveling

Give your dog a bath Cook dinner Water the plants Garden

Listen to what you parents are saying. Try to imagine what they are feeling and “put yourself in their shoes. " Ask questions. This will make you more engaged in the conversation and let your parents know that you are listening. Make yourself vulnerable. If applicable, share your own experiences with your parents. Open up to them. [4] X Trustworthy Source Greater Good Magazine Journal published by UC Berkeley’s Greater Good Science Center, which uses scientific research to promote happier living Go to source

Try saying, “I understand that you are worried about my safety when I stay out late, but it’s important to me to socialize and go out with my friends. "

For example, you could offer to cook dinner for your parents, or plan a hiking day with them. Take care of all of the logistics. Help with the housework, or offer to do them a favor around the house. Ask if their fence needs painting or the family dog needs walking.