Don’t expect this to work overnight, though. Just because you are mature for one whole day does not mean that your parents will let you go to a sleepover.
Sleepovers are generally harder to get permission for if they’re co-ed. Moms and dads can be uncomfortable if boys and girls are sleeping over together, and may have firmer rules depending on their values. [1] X Research source The size of the sleepover also matters. Some parents will be more comfortable with smaller sleepover than bigger ones.
Trust goes both ways. If you want your parents to trust you, then you should give them a chance and trust them too. A good way to show your parents that you trust them is to listen to their advice.
One thing you might do is see what you can do to help your parents out before asking. That way, they’ll be in a better mood, and you’ll have proven yourself deserving in their eyes.
It can be good to offer a few details before asking the question. This can help avoid a quick “no. " Say something like this: “My friend is having her birthday tomorrow, and wanted to have a pizza sleepover to celebrate. Would it be okay if I went over there and spent the night tomorrow?” Sitting down next to them while you ask can be a helpful trick, as it will make them feel less rushed in their decision. If possible, it’s a good idea to ask the question a couple of days in advance. Parents are usually more likely to react positively to a request in advance, rather than a last-minute plan.
Where you’ll be staying. Whether you’re planning on leaving your friend’s house at some point in the evening. What kind of parental supervision is expected. This is a big one. Whether anyone else will be the home. That includes siblings of your friend or other relatives. What your friend’s family situation is like.
Children at sleepovers learn new social skills. They have to be flexible in a new environment. You’re going to get a fresh perspective of another family during a sleepover. [4] X Research source Try not to make this one sound like you want to escape from your own family! A child being out of the house gives parents a chance to relax. Sleepovers can be an enjoyable treat once in a while. They can give you the opportunity to do interesting activities you haven’t tried before, like a movie marathon or listening to a favorite band’s complete set of music together.
Popping a question about this should be straightforward and calm. Say something like: “I understand that you may be worried over me going out tonight. What in particular is bothering you? Maybe we can find a way to fix it. "
Don’t give fake numbers. Even if you manage to make it out this time, messing around with your parents will ruin their trust and your chances for future sleepovers.
Some parents are automatically against any friends staying the night at their home, so don’t take this as a surefire alternative plan.
It’s a good idea to pack your sleepover things just in case. In order for this to work out, your parents will probably have to know the family you’re staying with well. It also helps if you have had successful sleepovers at that place before.
At the same time, you should be flexible with when they can pick you up. A lot of adults have a lot going on throughout their day, so it should be up to them when you are picked up the next day. [8] X Research source
If you can prove to your parents that you can follow through with your plans, they will start to see you are more responsible and start to trust you more.
If your parents can put a name to a face, it will set their minds at ease when you ask to sleepover.
Your parents will probably be trying to decide the sort of danger your friend may put you in. If your friend is known to be belligerent and irresponsible, you’ll have a very hard time convincing them that it’s a good idea to stay the night.
For example, if you feel sick or don’t feel comfortable spending the night anymore for whatever reason, call up your parents.
Remember: You don’t just want to make this sleepover work. You also want to ensure future sleepovers. Making it a pleasant experience for everyone involved will make sure you have the highest chance of more sleepovers.
