Don’t take any shortcuts on your chores. Do a good and thorough job. Keep your eyes open for small things that you can help with like clearing the table after dinner.
If you are able to stay at home alone, your parents might let you babysit your younger siblings. You can ask them by saying “Hey Mom & Dad, since you all let me be at home alone more often now, I wanted to let you know that I don’t mind keeping the kids sometimes if you wanna go out for dinner or a movie. ”
For instance, if they tell you follow the speed limits, be sure to drive carefully. If they don’t trust one of your friends, spend less time with that friend.
For instance, perhaps you are failing a class at school. Sit them down and tell them your issue and what you plan to do to fix it. Ask them for help and advice, too.
If you are going out to meet friends, let them know who you’ll be with. Be sure they meet your significant other, as well.
You might take them to dinner, or make them a card, or get them a gift.
If you can’t afford a gift, make one! There are many DIY gifts you can make that are just as good as buying something. Ask them if there is anything you can do for them.
Say “Thank you both so much for being wonderful parents to me. You have been such good examples to me and I am grateful to have you as parents. ”
Spend time with them separately, too. Go out for dinner with your mom alone sometimes and with your dad to the movies, for example.
For instance, you might say “Wow, I remember that day at the beach! I had so much fun with y’all that day. I’ll never forget how hard we laughed when that crab bit you, Dad. ”
Sometimes you may get busy and not have time to call and talk for a long time. When this happens, try sending your parents a quick text to let them know you love them and are thinking about them. You can also use this as an opportunity to schedule a call over the phone, on Skype, or using FaceTime.
For instance, you might be deciding on which college to go to or which home to buy. Keep them updated about your life in general, not just major decisions. This includes things like how work and school are going, who you’re dating, and shows or movies you’ve enjoyed lately.
If you’re married and have kids, try to take your your family to see your folks at least a few times a year. You can even plan vacations for you all to take together so they can bond with your spouse and kids.
