- Find a time that you and your parents can be comfortable and relaxed together.
- Make sure no one is focusing on something else while you're together No paying bills, playing Playstation, making dinner, or watching TV!
- These first two steps might take some effort and patience. Be persistent.
- If you just want to shoot the breeze try to bring up something they're interested in. Ask them questions about their day. Parents love this!
- If you have something specific you want to talk about let them know exactly what it is. Don't beat around the bush.
- If they react badly to what you tell them really listen to them. Don't react back.
- Let them finish and don't interrupt. Ask them to do the same for you.
- When you feel like you've told them what you wanted to thank them for listening. Remain respectful and keep your voice calm even if you're upset.
- If you feel like there are still things that need to be talked about set up a time with them to talk about it another day. Don't continue talking if things have grown tense. Calm down and try to have the talk again at another time.
Tips:
- Show them respect by focusing your attention on the conversation, looking them in the eyes, and by not being sarcastic or rolling your eyes.
- Be honest. Honesty builds trust. And life is good when your parents trust you.
- Stay cool. If you stay calm when things get heated up you're showing maturity and your parents will respect that.
