How to Convince Your Parents to Get a Takeaway Meal

Earn it. Your parent is much more likely to accept your request if they feel you have earned it, which can mean being well behaved and doing some chores. Try doing some jobs around the house and a few kind things for your parents - like making them a cup of tea or checking the letterbox for them. If you have had an argument or got into trouble recently your parents will remember the incident and be less likely to say yes.^[1]

Choose a takeout that suits the whole family's needs. Most parents want their children to be healthy, so choosing a takeout that is healthy may improve your chances of getting a yes. If someone in your family has specific dietary needs, you'll want to choose something they can eat too. It may also help to choose a takeout that isn't too expensive, or you could offer to put in some money yourself.

Ask politely. Your parents are more likely to say yes if you ask politely and use manners. Make sure the tone of your voice is calm and not demanding, do not demand or say "I want". Instead say "can we?".^[2]

• If your parent says no, do not become mad, because they might say yes with some more convincing - but getting mad could ruin your chances.

Try asking for another time if your parent says no. Maybe your parents already have dinner planned tonight or do not feel like that kind of food. Ask if you can have a takeaway another time and offer to do chores to earn the takeaway.^[3]

Try to cook similar food yourself. An alternative to a takeaway could be cooking something similar at home yourself. It can also be a healthier option that your parents might agree to. Ask to use the kitchen then get creative and think of ways you can make your meal just like how the takeaway place makes it. If you're copying a burger joint, try putting homecooked chips in cardboard holders, or using straws for your drinks.^[4]