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The first thing you should do before you discuss something important with your parents is figure out what you hope the gain from the conversation. Deciding on a goal you hope to achieve with the conversation can help guide the way you approach it with your parents. For example, the way you approach an important conversation is different if you're asking permission to do something than it would be if you needed advice or help with something. Write out what you want to say before you talk to your parents. You can bring your notes with you to make sure you don't forget anything when you're talking to your parents. Try to act out the conversation with a close friend or family member that can play the role of your parents and provide helpful input. It can be helpful to have someone provide feedback, and it can calm your nerves to know that you've prepared for the conversation as best as you can. Choose a friend, sibling, or family member that you know will be honest and give you feedback that can help you shape the conversation to be the most effective it can be. You may feel like approaching a certain parent could help you get what you want or make the conversation easier, but if it's really important, you should include both parents. Your parents will recognize that you wanted to get input from both of them and will appreciate it, which could help the conversation go easier. If your parents aren't together, try to include one of them on a phone or video call. Choose a time where both parents are more likely to be in a better mood or open to a conversation, like in the evening after work, or at dinner. Pick a place that is appropriate for an important conversation, like the dinner table, or living room. The car or at school isn't a great idea because there will be other distractions that could derail your conversation.
Plan out what you want to say before you talk to your parents. Rehearse the conversation with a friend that you trust. Choose a time and place to talk to both parents at the same time.