How to Talk Parents Into a Getting a Later Curfew

Curfews can be a touchy subject between teens and their parents. Many times, people get what they want because of how they approach the subject. If you're a teenager getting ready to talk to your parents about a later curfew, use the following suggestions to help you approach the subject of curfew and have your discussion be more productive.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Put some thought into how you will talk to your parents about extending your curfew. Make some notes that have the pros and cons of a curfew extension listed. Think about the request from your parent's angle and think about possible arguments that they might have against a later curfew. Plan what your responses could be to those opinions and arguments.

2. Find a time to talk with your parents that you can all sit down together to discuss the curfew extension. Right when they walk in from work isn't going to be a very good time, rather call them, email them or ask them if they could give you some time right after dinner as you have something you would like to discuss with them. They will appreciate your consideration of their time for the discussion.

3. Talk with clarity and respect to your parents when requesting a later curfew. Give them time to process the request if they are a little undecided. Show maturity in your words and conversation as this could easily sway their decision. Consider suggesting a later curfew on a trial basis or for specific events going on such as school dances, proms, football games and a birthday party. This still gives your parents some control as to whether the curfew extension will continue.

4. Accept the decision of your parents if they say no. Simply tell them that you're disappointed, but you respect their decision and hopefully they'll reconsider in the near future. If you overreact by yelling at them, you can kiss your curfew extension goodbye for a while. Show maturity in your reactions.

5. Work at gaining the respect and trust of your parents if you've had curfew problems in the past. It's your job to prove to your parents that you are mature enough for them to give you extra privileges. Parents just want what is best for their kids, so they may have valid reasons why they won't approve a curfew. Honor your current curfew without having an "attitude" about it and you'll be more likely to win your parents over to extending that curfew soon.