Do's
- Do research about whatever it is that you want to accomplish before you talk to your parents.
- Have a plan, think about the steps that someone would need to take in order to accomplish that goal. If you don't know the steps to take, it's unlikely your parents will understand what steps need to be taken.
- Put in effort to make your goal happen. Think about what you can offer in exchange for your parents' help. Yes, you are young, but most parents would find doing work around the house as an acceptable trade for buying accessories/cages. Offering to help pay for all/part of the expenses will not only make your parents take you more seriously but understand how important it is to you.
- Be willing to compromise, maybe your dream hamster cage is 1500 sq inches, but maybe your parents can only afford a 50 gal bin upgrade, you need to be open to hearing their side of things. Be open and honest with them and ask them to do the same for you.
- Do be respectful of your parents' time. Ask if there is a time that is convenient for them when they are not busy (aka not working or making dinner etc) that they can talk to you about something that is very important. That way you have their full attention and they are listening to you instead of half listening. It also shows you have respect for them and would make them much more likely to listen to you.
- If your parents cannot or will not buy a bigger cage for your hamster, accept it and do whatever you can to give your hamster a good life. DIYs and boredom breakers are your friend
- Don't accuse your parents of animal abuse if they don't agree to what you want.
- Don't demand or think you are entitled to a certain item because it's "for the good of the hamster". It might be good for the hamster, but it's not up to other people to make your hamster happy. That's on you.
- Don't expect your parents to put in the all the work of making a DIY cage for you, because you are a child. Ask for their help if you need it, but be willing to do with work along side them.
- Do not try to guilt or shame your parents into doing something for you, not only will it damage your relationship but it will likely make them say no flat out without even hearing you out.
- Don't try to bring in an animal in the house without your parents knowing about it. This never ends well. For you or the hamster.
- Don't get frustrated or angry at your parents for not getting your way. Give it some time and try again or ask your parents under what conditions would they allow you get what you need for the hamster.
