LIFE

Whether or not you want to admit it, having a strong, healthy relationship with your parents is super beneficial to your happiness and well being. They can be your strongest support system, your go-to confidants or your shoulder to cry on. But get on their bad side, and it’ll seem like they’re your worst enemy. If you need some new tips for maintaining the peace, read on for 8 easy ways perfect your parental bond.

1. Don’t lie.
It’s pretty easy to convince yourself that your parents are totally oblivious to what’s going on in your life. But think about it—they were young once too, and probably have a pretty good idea of what kids are doing these days. Be honest with them, even if you’re worried that you’ve done something to make them mad or that they’ll deny whatever you’re requesting. Chances are, even if they’re disappointed, they’ll move on eventually. After all, you are their child! 

2. Make dinner one night a week. 
Your parents spend so much time taking care of you, so why not do something for them every once in awhile? Surf the web for some fun recipes and cook dinner. It can be for the whole fam or something romantic for just the two of them. Either way, it’ll surely be appreciated. 

3. Introduce them to your friends.
We all know how it goes. As you get older, you’ll probably want to hang out more with your friends and less with your fam. While that’s completely reasonable, your parents will likely be eager to know a bit about these new influential people in your life. Don’t be embarrassed to let your folks meet your friends. 

4. Be open. 
Believe it or not, your parents actually care about how you’re feeling and what you’ve been up to. Give them the inside scoop on your latest crush, your current bestie or some of the recent, juicy gossip. 

5. Trade a night out with friends for babysitting your siblings. 
Simultaneously going to work and taking care of things around the house can fill up your parents’ schedules pretty quickly. Try spending a night at home instead of off with friends, and offer to babysit your siblings so that your parents can go on a date. Better yet, invite a friend over and get the best of *both* worlds. 

6. Give advance notice about plans. 
Make it easier on your parents’ hectic lives by avoiding last-minute calls asking them to pick you up, or breaking the news that you’ll be skipping out on family dinner. 

7. Keep them in the loop about your school work.
Got a bad grade on an assignment? No worries, it happens to the best of us. Just stop hiding those report cards and let your parents be involved in your education. If you’re struggling, they’ll be glad that you came clean before they hear it from your teacher or worse, your principal. 

8. Don’t take them for granted. 
Every day, moms and dads make the selfless choice to dedicate their lives to raising their kids. Remember to be appreciative and let them know that you love them every so often.  

Got any more suggestions for a smooth sailing relationship with your parents? Leave your tips in the comments below!

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by Allie Burrows | 5/18/2017