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Getting Along with Parents 191
This is why it’s good to get into the habit of talking to each other openly. By learning to talk
about your feelings instead of fighting, you and your parents will have an easier time coming
to grips with this new phase in your lives.
Pick a time to talk when you’re not upset and your parents aren’t busy or tired. In a calm
and mature way, explain that you feel like you’re ready for more freedom and responsibility.
Be very specific about what you’re asking for and what you’re willing to do in exchange. The
bottom line with most parents is that they want their kids to be safe. Keep that in mind, and
hopefully you won’t be arguing with your parents so much anymore. Thanks for writing.
In friendship,
Terra
I lost my phone privileges
because of bad grades
Hey Terra,
Do you think it’s fair that I lost my phone privileges for a month just because I got two C pluses
and a C on my report card?
Bum Deal
Dear Bum Deal,
It’s clear that your parents believe there’s some connection between poor grades and too
much telephone time. If you want to prove to them that you can balance school and friends,
you’ve got to raise your grades.
My suggestion is that you work really hard to improve your grades in some or all of your
subjects. Talk to your teachers to get ideas about how you can do this. Maybe you need to sit
toward the front of the classroom so it’s easier to pay attention. Perhaps you need help keep-
ing up with your homework and studying for tests. Tell your parents about what you’re doing,
so they feel reassured that you’re giving your schoolwork top priority.
As things get better at school, show your parents the progress you’re making. If they’re
impressed with the improvement, you might be able to renegotiate your phone privileges.