Listed here are some "rules" to go by if you want to get along with your parents, step-parent, grandparents, etc. They are guaranteed to work most of the time. Use these ideas and you may be surprised at just how nice things can be at home, school, or wherever. Like, try `em out guys; you just might like what happens.

1. Say "Thank you" every now and then when your parent has done something nice for you (like giving you a ride to your friend's house, or taking you out for Pizza, or whatever.

2. Pick up after yourself in the yard, the living room, the family room, the kitchen, and especially in bathroom.

3. Don't leave wet towels in your bedroom.

4. Actually give a compliment once in a while (like "That was a good dinner, Mom." or "That's a really neat dog house you built for Buster, Dad.")

5. Ask for things nicely. Instead of saying "Mom, I want some ice cream." try saying "Mom, may I have some ice cream please."

6. Don't whine when you are asked to help out with household chores.

7. Do your chores when asked. Better yet, do the things you know you should do without having to be asked at all.

8. Look around and see what should be done. Is waste basket full? Offer to take out the trash.

9. Don't whine about doing your school work. Better yet, do it before your parent even has a chance to remind you.

10. Actually try to talk to your parents about things. Tell them about your day at school or what you did at your friend's house.

11. Invite your parents to talk to you. Show an interest in their lives. Ask a question like "How was your day, Mom?"

12. When one parent says "No" to something, don't run to the other parent and ask for the same thing.

13. When your parents say "No" to something that is really important to you, don't whine, pout, stomp out, or try to sneak off and do it. Don't argue. Instead, try to figure out why they said, "No." If you think you know why, and you understand what their concerns are, try to come up with a different request that is a compromise; one that you think they will be more comfortable with.

14. Remember that sometimes a parent may have a bad day, not be feeling well, or just not be in the best mood. Be helpful and put off requests or complaints until later.

15. Learn to recognize when you are having a bad day or are just not in a good mood. Be careful what you say at those times.

16. When you goof up, apologize. Don't say, "I'm sorry." Say, "I apologize." Sometimes, especially if you did or said something really hurtful, it is best to say, "Please forgive me." "I'm sorry" is too overused and often not as meaningful as apologizing and asking for forgiveness.

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This page last modified on 6/25/99