How can I persuade my parents?

I see you recently turned 13. Happy Birthday!

At the age of 13, you would be old enough to take on a bit of responsibility for earning at least some of your spending money. Ask your parents and relatives if you can do some extra work for them (not simple chores, but EXTRA work). And if they say yes, be very grownup – meaning please work hard, say “yes sir” and “no sir”, and don’t take a lot of breaks. Keep track of the hours you are ACTUALLY WORKING (not the total hours you are at their house, but the hours you actually worked!). If they decide the amount to pay you for your work, then smile and say thank you (whether you think it’s enough money or not). If they ask you how much your work is worth, tell them $5.00 or $6.00 an hour. If they pay you more than that, again, smile and say “thank you” then take the extra money.

Tell them from the start that you need to replace your bicycle, and that’s the reason you need to find extra work. DO NOT complain to them about your parents not replacing your old bike; this is YOUR responsibility, not your parents’.

FINALLY, ask your parents permission before you accept any job – especially if the person is not related to you.

Following this plan will earn the respect of not only your parents, but the people who hire you as well. If you work hard, you will have future offers for additional work. This way, you can have the bike of your dreams PLUS earn everyone’s respect. Everyone wins!