Find a time when your parents are in a good mood. If you ask them at a bad time, they may not be as open to the idea. If they are ready to leave and you’re still asking to stay home, they’re likely to say no. [1] X Research source Be prepared for them to say no. Unless you have a good reason to stay home, your parents may not want you to skip.

If you feel yourself getting angry, take a deep breath. If you have time, you could try asking them again later in the day. [3] X Research source Don’t call your parents names, or be mean to them. They may have great reasons for wanting you to go to school. If you start yelling at them, you’ll just get yourself in trouble. [4] X Research source

If they let you stay home on the condition that you do some chores, make sure you do them. Don’t give your parents any reason not to trust you. It’ll be harder to work with them in the future. [6] X Research source Making good on your compromise may earn you some stock with your parents. If they see that you’re responsible, you might have an easier time working things out with them later on.

Your parents might make you go to school anyway, but they may be able to help you with your problem.

Make sure your parents aren’t around while you practice. If they catch on, you’ll be going to school. Most people can feel a cold coming on a day or two before it happens. If you can, mention to your parents that you think you’re getting sick. [8] X Research source

Try to fall asleep often, especially if you’re watching TV. Sick kids tend to fall asleep easily. If you say you’re sick one minute, but then get excited about your favorite show, your parents might not believe you. [10] X Research source Avoid complaining too much. The trick to acting sick is to not give the impression that you are acting sick. Keep the whining down, and don’t make a scene.

Another way is to run a thermometer under hot water to raise its temperature. This method requires a little work, as well as trusting parents. [12] X Research source Be careful when you fake a fever. If your temperature is too high, you may end up in the emergency room where you will soon be found out. Try to keep the fever right around 100-degrees Fahrenheit. [13] X Research source Don’t stick the thermometer in the microwave to warm it up. This will only ruin the thermometer. [14] X Research source

If you don’t have your own makeup to use, be careful. If you get caught using mom’s makeup, you might be in more trouble than it’s worth. When choosing a lipstick to make your nose red, don’t use anything metallic or shiny. Just find a basic red lipstick. [16] X Research source Don’t go too light when making yourself pale. Find something similar to your natural skin tone. [17] X Research source Try putting some of the lipstick you used to make your nose red around the corners of your eyes. Be careful not to get lipstick in your eyes, and only use enough to make it look like you’ve been rubbing them. [18] X Research source

Don’t groan or make any gross noises. Remember, keep it simple.

You could also try doing some physical activity, such as push-ups or sit-ups. Do just enough to get a small band of sweat going on your forehead. [19] X Research source

When your parents ask what is wrong, mention that your head hurts right behind your eyes. The better you are at describing the pain, the more likely it is they will take you seriously.

Don’t take this step too far. Light sensitivity is common with migraines, but a general headache may not call for it. Use this tactic at your discretion. [24] X Research source

For an added bonus, keep your room quiet. Turn your television off, and don’t listen to music. Few parents will believe their children are choosing to stay in a dark room all day with no entertainment. [26] X Research source