For most of us, meeting our boyfriend's parents has always been a little nerve-wracking. After all, the expectation demonstrated in "Meet The Parents" didn't give us much hope. Believe it or not, though, the parents can actually be pretty cool people. After all, they did raise the person you're swooning over. So, how can you impress them? It's not impossible, and a little bit goes a long way.
1. Spend quality time with them
This means get off your phone, or your boyfriend or girlfriend's arm, and speak with them. Ask them about their lives, don't just talk about yours. Show interest and they will be impressed.
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2. Don't be shy
This may be easier said than done, but not talking at all during your visits may come off the wrong way, or even make you look childish. If you're old enough to be dating, you should be old enough to carry a small conversation over dinner.
3. Small gifts for special occasions
Whether it is Mother's Day, Father's Day, Christmas, or just because, a small, sentimental gift goes a long way when showing appreciation.
4. Don't ever push boundaries
If they say no, don't ever question it. If they want their child home at a certain time, be early. Don't go against what they say, or talk your S.O. into doing the same. Don't rebel against their decisions, just appreciate and respect their point of view.
5. Offer to help with household tasks
If they've invited you over for dinner or another occasion, there is no harm in asking if you could help with dishes, putting food away, or simply clearing the table. It shows maturity and that you appreciate their kind gesture.
6. Always respect their child
If you're having a fall out with your S.O. and are being particularly disrespectful about it, there is a good chance their parents have probably heard something about it and a better chance that they will make a safe assumption about you. Respect is essential.
7. Don't flake out on the opportunity to attend family events
Hanging out with your S.O.'s parents can be intimidating enough, let alone hanging out with the entire gang. Don't let that stop you though, because being close to the whole family is a great reflection of how easy you are to get along with and how much you care about not just your relationship with your S.O., but your relationship with everyone else, too!
8. Offer to buy lunch, dinner, or even just coffee
After all, they probably offer food to you all the time. The least you could do is return the gesture. Of course, you don't have to take them to a five-star restaurant, you could simply buy a coffee and they will feel appreciated.
9. Respect yourself
Nothing could be more detrimental to the relationship you have with any adult than putting yourself in a position to where they could come across your social media account filled pictures and videos of troubling or illegal activities you've taken part in, especially with their child. Everyone can see those types of things, and word travels fast. You want to be your best self when you're trying to win over your S.O.'s parents.
10. Respect their time
Your boo may want you to stay over an extra hour, but sometimes you need to think about the people trying to sleep who have to be up at the crack of dawn. Overstaying your welcome is a real thing, and you don't want to find yourself keeping your S.O.'s parents up all night, or from relaxing in their own home.
Being appreciated and valued by your S.O.'s parents isn't impossible at all. For the most part, it's all about respect. Make sure you take the time to get to know the parents, they deserve a lot of credit, after all.
