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We’ve all been there: there’s something that you want more than anything, but you’ve got to find a way to get your parents to agree to it. Whether it’s a new pair of shoes, a car, or a trip somewhere, convincing your parents not be as impossible as you might think. There are some tips and tricks you can use to ask them the right way. To make it easier for you, we’ve put together a helpful list you can follow to get your parents on board.

Things You Should Know

  • To make your parents more likely to help, first do something kind for them and let them know you appreciate all they do.
  • Clearly explain the benefits of your idea and be prepared to answer your parents' questions.
  • To help convince them further, explain that your parents don't have to answer right away and compare your solution to something else that they wouldn't be as happy with.
  • Understand if they cannot do it due to financial, business, or other reasons.
1

Find out more details about what you want.

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  1. No matter what you’re asking for from your parents, you can expect them to want to know more about it before they agree to it. Spend some time looking into everything about what you want so you can explain the pros and cons. It can go a long way in helping to convince them.
    • For instance, if you want to convince your parents to let you join your school’s basketball team, look into the benefits of physical activity, the social benefits of playing on a team, and opportunities for scholarships.
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2

Anticipate their questions so you have answers ready.

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  1. Think about what possible questions your parents may have for you so you can prepare for them. Come up with solid answers to their potential questions. That way, if and when they do ask you, you have a great response ready to go.
    • For instance, if you’re trying to convince your parents to get you a skateboard, they’ll probably ask things like, “How much do they cost?” and “Aren’t they dangerous?” Prepare answers like, “The skateboard I’d like to get is $100 and I plan to wear a helmet and knee pads so I don’t get hurt.”
    • If you want to take a beach trip with your friends, you can expect them to ask, “How will you get there?” and “Where will you stay?” Be ready to answer with things like, “We’re staying with Jack’s parents and they’re going to drive us.”
4

Start up a normal conversation when you’re ready to ask.

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5

Show your parents that you appreciate everything they do for you.

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6

Tell your parents they don’t have to say yes or no right now.

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  1. If you need to convince your parents of something major, like a long trip or a really expensive item, your best bet is to give them time. Just before you ask them, tell them that they can take their time to think about it before they respond.[3]
    • For instance, if you’re trying to convince your parents to get you a car, say something like, “You don't have to answer me now, but I do want to ask you about something.”
    • If you think they'll probably say no, asking for a delayed response might work in your favor. If they have some time to think things over, they may come around to the idea!
7

Ask them for what you want clearly and directly.

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8

Explain the benefits of what you’re asking for.

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9

Try offering something in return to help convince them.

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10

Use comparisons to make the request seem more appealing.

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  1. Make a comparison between what you want and another, more expensive request, especially if your parents are unfamiliar with the subject and don’t have a frame of reference. Talk about more expensive items first and then talk about the cheaper, more affordable option that you’re asking for.[6]
    • For example, if you’re trying to convince your parents to buy you a gaming console, talk about how the new PlayStation is over $400 USD, but you can buy older consoles for around $100. They may be more open to agreeing to buy the cheaper version.

Community Q&A

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  • Question
    I asked my parents to have a sleepover with my friend, the same day of the sleepover (I know, I know I should have waited)and no matter what I say, they say no. I even wrote a essay. What should I do?
    Drew Hawkins1
    Drew Hawkins1
    Community Answer
    In the end, you may be better off letting this one go and trying again in the near future. Next time, try doing something nice like cleaning your home and any chores your parents have for you. Then, ask them way ahead of time (like a week or so). If they're hesitant, tell them they don't have to say yes or no right now, and they may come around to the idea and let you have a sleepover.
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Tips

Tips from our Readers

  • Be careful how you go about asking something. Some good words are please, consideration, and responsibility. Make it seem as if you know the full situation and you understand all sides of it.
  • Don't bug your parents about it everytime you talk to them. This will make them more annoyed and you will end up getting no for an answer.
  • Plan out your contribution! Same-day-vacuuming or same-day-I-appreciate-you's will otherwise easily raise "suspicion" that something's up.
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About This Article

Desiree Panlilio
Co-authored by:
Teen Life Coach
This article was co-authored by Desiree Panlilio. Desiree Panlilio is a Teen Life Coach and the Owner of Encouraging Teens, LLC. With over three years of experience, she specializes in helping teens and young adults define roles, set goals, develop healthy academic and personal habits, grow in leadership potential, and create their life paths. Desiree holds a BSN in Nursing from The University of Victoria and an MA in Human Services Counseling with a concentration in Life Coaching from Liberty University. This article has been viewed 185,880 times.
46 votes - 82%
Co-authors: 34
Updated: July 16, 2024
Views: 185,880
Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 185,880 times.

Reader Success Stories

  • Anonymous A.

    Anonymous A.

    May 13

    "I could never convince my parents to let me have my own room so I got on wikiHow and I actually got what I was..." more
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