INPUT ARTICLE: Article: Timing is everything, as the old saying goes. "Make time for a casual exchange when both of you aren't preoccupied with something else." Try to get him alone. If he's surrounded by his or your friends , he might respond based on their presence, and not based on how he actually feels. Don't worry if you can't catch him alone, though just quietly ask if he has a minute to chat privately. Don't rush. You don't want to be nervous or hurried. Asking him as you're trying to speed walk or run to class, or he's on his way to an doctor or dentist appointment, is a recipe for disaster. Instead, choose a time when you have some flexibility, like after school or at lunch. Pay attention to his mood. If he seems particularly grumpy or quiet, it might be best to wait for another chance. This may feel tough, but it can be surprisingly simple. An open-ended question (that does not have a "yes/no" answer) is a safe place to start. Ask about his upcoming plans. ("What are you doing this weekend? I wanted to....") Ask his thoughts on a common experience (teacher, friend, class, etc.). ("Did you see...? I thought that was...! What did you think?") Open, attentive positioning will get your point across perhaps without even saying it. Lock eyes. Eye contact will tell him that you are listening to him and you care. Shying away from eye contact shows you're nervous and less approachable. Posture. Make sure your body is open and pointed toward him. Tilt your hips toward him (if standing) and make sure your arms aren't crossed. Touch. Make excuses to touch him in appropriate, light ways. The bond of human touch subconsciously puts humans more at ease. Lightly lay your hand on his forearm as you're talking, or gently bump into his side if you're walking together. Mirror his positioning. Getting into a physical groove with him will tell him you are similar. Humans are programmed to seek out those like us. . Always, always, always smile. Not only will it make him happier to be around you, it'll up your mood, too! When the big reveal comes, remember to relax! After all, he's just one person, like you. Here's how to get through it with grace: A non-threatening idea is to pad it with another statement: "Sarah was asking who I thought would go to State this year. I told her I liked you and thought you'd make it." "You failed the history exam? Oh, that sucks! I didn't do too great, either. But don't worry, I still really like you." If you're good friends, a more straight-forward approach is fine: "We have tons of fun together. I like you so much." You may want to ask it back: "I think I'm starting to like you. Do you feel the same?" Be prepared for what he says, good or bad. If he's a decent person, he won't want to hurt your feelings. If he doesn't like you back, that's fine. You were brave for trying! Be proud of yourself. To avoid feeling awkward, leave on a happy note: "I understand. I still want to be friends, though. You're so funny!" "I have to get home; I just wanted to let you know. I'll see you in gym! I'll kick your butt in basketball tomorrow!" If he doesn't give you a definite response, revisit the conversation at a later date. He may need time to figure out how he feels. Give the subject space and revisit it in a few days. If he says he likes you back, stay cool. This is not the time to attack him with your kisses. Smile, continue the conversation, and find a time you two are free to spend together.

SUMMARY: Pick the right moment. Start a conversation. Monitor your body language. Smile Tell him. Handle the response.

INPUT ARTICLE: Article: If you don't know exactly what it was you did wrong or how you can rebuild a feeling of trust, getting your things back can be difficult. Although it can be tough, talking with your parents about the problem can be the best way forward. After you learn what the problem is by sharing your thoughts and feelings, you can take direct steps to rebuild trust and get your things back. Don't be afraid to ask your parents why you are in trouble. Say something like "I understand that I did something wrong, but I'm not sure what exactly is wrong with it." It's okay to share your side of things with your parents and honestly talk about how you feel. Having an honest and civil discussion with your parents can be a great first step to show maturity and rebuild trust. Even if your parents are mad, avoid yelling at them or speaking with any kind of sarcastic tone. Showing an understanding of what you did wrong and how it affected trust between you and your parents can be a good idea. You could say something like "I know that sneaking out last night was wrong and dangerous. I'm sorry for doing it and I want to help make things better." If you don't feel like there is a clear way forward, rebuilding trust can seem impossible. Knowing exactly what you can expect from your good behavior can help you know how to act, what to do, and how you can get your stuff back. Ask your parents for some details about when and how you can have your privileges back. Ask your parents what behavior they expect from you in the future. You might say "I want make up for what I did. What can I do to show that?" Ask your parents when you can expect your things or privileges restored. Try asking something like "How long can I expect to wait before I get my things back?" It can be pretty obvious when you've done something to make your parents upset. However, this doesn't always make it easier when you're trying to do what's right. Asking your parents to let you know when your doing the right thing can help rebuild trust and demonstrate that you are trying to make things right. You could ask your parents something like "I want to do the right thing and apologize for what I did. It would be nice to hear when I do the right thing. I think this will help me focus on what to do next time." Restoring trust between you and your parents won't happen overnight. Anytime trust is broken, it will take some time before it is restored. Don't be in a rush to rebuild trust and get your stuff back faster. For now, focus on doing the right thing in the future and avoid doing anything that might make the situation worse.

SUMMARY:
Talk to your parents. Have your parents make their expectations clear. Ask for some positive feedback. Take your time.