If you can convince your parents to give you a cell phone, that's great.
Asking your parents to give you a phone can be nerve-racking if they say no.If you want to convince your parents that you need a phone, you have to show them you're responsible.You will be on your way to a new phone if you plan what you are going to say and accept their response.
Step 1: Do your research on mobile devices.
Look at the price of the phone you want.The cost of the phone should be taken into account along with any monthly bills.You might be able to find a deal on a phone.You can buy used/refurbished phones on sites like eBay.Older devices are cheaper than the newest flagships.Your family's current carrier may be able to give you a discount.If money is a big concern for your parents, this can be helpful.
Step 2: Consider the reasons that your parents might say no to you.
You have to sidestep their reasons to convince them.You can plan a response if you think about what they might say.They might say no because you might have had other electronics in the past which might've broken, but try to convince them that you're older and more mature now and you can take care of your own belongings.If your parents are worried about money, they will probably say that they can't afford a new phone.When it comes to a cellphone, many parents have practical concerns.If you have a part-time job or savings, you can offer to pay for some of the phone yourself.If you play a lot of video games, your parents may worry that you will download too many gaming apps.If your older sibling got caught talking to someone they weren't supposed to, your parents may worry that you will do the same.
Step 3: There are ways to address issues.
Think about how to approach the potential concerns after you've made a list.What can you tell your parents that will make them less worried about you getting a phone?Think of a solution for every problem.
Step 4: Plan how you will respond.
You need to find an argument against each of the reasons your parents gave for not giving you a phone.Tell your parents that the phone won't cost as much as they think and that you will help pay for it.Ask your friends for free games, or make a promise to your parents that you won't download any games.If your parents want you to cut back on video games if you get the phone, then you should.Your parents will be able to check who you are texting.
Step 5: Consider why you should have a phone.
If you have a strong case, you will be more likely to convince your parents that you need a phone.It was promised to be responsible with the phone.Let your parents know that you will use the phone in a responsible way.You will be promised to limit your time on the phone.You can only use the phone for a certain number of hours.If you are in trouble, a phone would allow you to call your parents.It's okay to exaggerate a little but if you're too dramatic your parents might think that you are immature and not able to remind them that kids their age often encounter peer pressure, so having an easy way to contact them would allow you to.You can ask your friend for their notes if you miss school.If you missed a day of school and needed to catch up, you may have forgotten a book or notes.If you don't get your own phone, you're going to have to use your parents's, which is annoying for them.
Step 6: Discuss the benefits of a phone.
There are some benefits to using a cell phone.Your parents will be more likely to allow you to have a phone if you emphasize how the phone can help you thrive.Don't forget to emphasize any learning possibilities from the phone.If you want to organize your homework, you can download apps or listen to audiobooks.If you ever run late, texting your parents will let them know.
Step 7: Show your parents you're responsible.
If your parents know that you can take care of the phone, they will be more likely to trust you.Do your homework every day.Do all of your chores without your parents asking.Take care of your stuff.Getting a job will not interfere with your studies.If you receive a gift, spend your lunch money wisely.
Step 8: Do you have requirements for keeping a phone?
You will have to earn the phone as an ongoing reward.If your parents want you to do extra chores or help pay for the plan, you have to keep your grades up.
Step 9: You can say what you want.
It is not necessary to have your speech written out word-per-word.You can say what you want in front of the mirror.You will go into the situation feeling prepared.The first thing you can say is, "Hey, I'd like to talk to you guys about something that's been on my mind."Say something like "I've been really wanting a cellphone for awhile now" to introduce the topic.
Step 10: There is a good time.
Ask your parents when they are happy and relaxed.Wait to ask if they are busy, rushed, or have a hard day.If your parents are already talking to someone on the phone or face-to-face, don't interrupt them.Say something like, "Do you guys have a minute?" to let your parents know you want to talk.I wanted to speak to you.It is okay to let your parents know that you want to talk when they are free.Say hello, mom.If you have time tonight, I would like to talk to you about something.
Step 11: Don't be afraid to be direct.
It's best to be direct.Don't drop hints, introduce the topic right away.Say something like, "I wanted to have my own cellphone."I wanted to ask if you would allow me to have my own cellphone.
Step 12: Behave maturely.
Don't be mean during the discussion.If you whine, argue, or storm off, your parents will see that you aren't mature enough for a phone.
Step 13: Don't play on their feelings.
You can appeal to their emotions in a number of ways, including their concern for your safety, your need for independence, and your desire for social acceptance.If you go out of town for a sport or activity, tell your parents that the phone will allow you to stay in contact with them while you are gone.Tell them about a kid who needed to call for help.Remember last month when a stranger stopped that girl two streets down?She used her cell phone to call for help.
Step 14: Give any information you have gathered.
Don't forget to use the information you gathered earlier.Talk about why you want a phone, how you'll be responsible when using it, and any benefits the phone has."I would really like to be able to interact with my friends."I wouldn't be doing anything irresponsible if I used the phone for socializing.Any benefits should be added.My friend has an app that helps organize their schedule.I might be able to stay on track with my homework.
Step 15: Logic should be used.
Show your parents that you want a phone.You should include the responses you prepared against the phone.If your parents pick you up from practice, tell them that you can call when it's time.Use your responses.I promise to leave my phone in my bedroom the whole time we are eating.
Step 16: There is evidence to bring.
There is a news article about why kids should have phones.Your parents will trust a credible news source.It's possible to get a child a phone at a younger age than you are.Make sure the adult that wrote the article is reliable and avoid posts written by other kids.
Step 17: Take on more responsibilities if you want to.
Explain to your parents that you will do more chores in exchange for a phone, and explain how you can use the phone in school.
Step 18: Allow your parents to set restrictions.
If you agree to your parents rules for using the phone and allow them to check it out, they are more likely to say yes.They can check your phone to make sure you follow their rules.They can track your location with a phone tracking app.Don't get upset if your parents tell you not to text friends.They will allow you to if you show you are mature and responsible, which will help when it comes to asking for other things, whether they're related to the phone or not.
Step 19: Allow your parents to pick the phone and plan.
Don't worry about the features of the phone.Offer to let them choose between a pre-paid plan or cheaper phone model.
Step 20: When asked, express gratitude.
It is possible to increase the likelihood of a positive outcome by showing your parents you care.Tell your parents how much you appreciate what they do.It won't come off like you're entitled to a cellphone.Say something like, "I know how hard you guys work to pay for everything and I really appreciate that."
Step 21: Offer to help.
Offer to use your allowance or gift money to buy a phone if you have saved it.You can offer to forgo your allowance to help pay the phone bill or to contribute money that you earn from a job, babysitting, or mowing yards.
Step 22: You can listen to their point of view.
Your parents have a right to speak up.Let your parents talk if they have questions or want to make a comment.As your parents respond, do not interrupt.
Step 23: If they don't, ask for a reason.
It's okay to ask why if your parents say no.Do not seem to be arguing.Don't say, "But why?"Everyone else has one."Okay, but is there any particular reason you're saying no?"
Step 24: Don't complain or argue.
If your parents say no, it's okay to try to compromise.Do not start complaining, raising your voice, or acting in an argument.This will make your parents less likely to change their minds.Don't use phrases like, "It's not fair!"This can be used as an argument.Try something like, "Thank you for listening, but I feel like you're not hearing my side."
Step 25: Accept their answer and move on.
Don't protest or plead with them if they say no.Listen to what they say without reacting.Take a deep breath and stay calm.Don't argue.If you argue with your parents, they will likely become more resistant to the idea of you getting a phone.Understand their response.Remember that your parents have a good reason to say no.They may not be able to add the cost of a phone to your account right now.
Step 26: You can offer to earn a phone.
If money is a concern, offer to pay for some of the costs yourself.Say you will save money if you already have a job.To help pay for the phone, you can offer a job.You can offer to earn the phone in other ways.If you want to bring your math grade up, ask if you can get a phone in exchange."I could put $25 of my own money towards the bill each month."
Step 27: Ask about the details.
Whether you get a yes or a no, you need to ask your parents a few clarifying questions to know what to do next.Ask them for their rules and expectations if they say yes.Say that you are excited about getting a new phone.If they say no, ask them what you can do to show them that you are ready for a phone.What can I do to convince you that I am responsible for a phone?
Step 28: Make a plan for your next step.
Talk to your parents about when you can go shopping on the phone.Take steps to show your parents that you're responsible if they say no.Try not to get upset if they say no, you can ask again or they may reconsider.If you want to be successful the next time, think about what you can do now.Don't try to get your parents to buy the phone again and again, remember.They will not be satisfied with your behavior.
Step 29: Request them to think about it.
Request a delayed response if your parents are hesitant.Say something like, "I'm pretty sure you guys aren't sure about this."We can discuss it again if you take a few days to think about it.
Step 30: Accept a no for now.
If your parents don't allow you to get a cellphone, politely accept this.This shows responsibility if you accept a "No" with grace.It is possible that your parents will change their minds down the road.Say something like, "Thank you for your time anyway."I appreciate you listening.