How to Do Nice Things for Your Parents & Show Your Appreciation

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Gift ideas & things you can say to make your parents feel valued
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Parents provide care, protection, love, and support, but it can be easy to forget how much they do on a daily basis. In this article, we’re providing the ultimate list of nice things you can do for your parents to express your gratitude. Whether it’s for Parents' Day, their anniversary, or just because, here’s how to help out your parents and make them feel appreciated!

Ways to Show Appreciation to Your Parents

  1. Thank your parents for their love and support.
  2. Talk to your parents or call them whenever you can.
  3. Plan an outing or family vacation to help them unwind.
  4. Do your chores without being asked and offer to run errands.
  5. Buy or make a gift that aligns with their interests and hobbies.
  6. Write them a heartfelt letter or send a text that expresses gratitude.
  7. Surprise them by making dinner or pitching in around the house when they’re stressed.
Section 1 of 4:

Ways to Show Your Parents Gratitude & Respect

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  1. Let your parents know that you appreciate everything they do for you. This not only includes the big stuff, like putting a roof over your head and feeding you, but also the small things, like doing your laundry or driving you to your friend's house. A simple "thank you" goes a long way, so here are some examples of what you can say: [1]
    • “Thank you for being so patient with me.”
    • “Thank you for attending all of my soccer games.”
    • “Thank you for picking me up from practice every day.”
    • “Thank you for all the sacrifices you’ve made for our family.”
    • “Thank you for showing me what it means to be a kind person.”
    • “Thank you for reminding me to pack an umbrella when it rains.”
  2. If you need help, reach out to your parents for some words of wisdom. Chances are, they’ll feel valued that you trust their opinion and rely on them. Remember to follow up and properly thank them for their support. [2]
    • For example, you could say “You were right about going to sleep early, instead of pulling an all-nighter. I feel so refreshed and prepared for my exam today. Thank you.”
    • Even if their advice didn’t help you, show gratitude for their time. You might say, “I ended up failing the exam, but now I know that I should go to after-school tutoring if I don’t understand the homework. Thank you for listening to my problems and offering support.”
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  3. No one is perfect all the time. If you did something that upset your parents or said something you didn’t mean, tell them you're sorry. [3] School counselor Evanna Torrecillas says that apologizing “acknowledges the impact of your actions.”
    • It's never too late to say you're sorry! According to Torrecillas, apologizing is your “chance to mend the relationship and show that you’re willing to put in the work to do better.”
    • Instead of trying to dismiss what happened, own up to your mistake and make a genuine apology . You could say, “I’m sorry for lashing out at you when I was hungry. I didn’t mean what I said, and I feel terrible for being so rude. In the future, I’ll stop to think more carefully before I say things.”
  4. Your parents want to feel involved in your life, so make an effort to talk to them at dinner, instead of looking at your phone. Ask them how their day went and tell them about yours. By discussing problems, opportunities, and new experiences you’re going through, you’ll make your parents happy and strengthen your relationship . [4]
    • If you don’t live with your parents, give them a call at least once a week. [5] Sharing life updates and asking them how they’re doing is the best way to stay connected. Feel free to call them whenever you can, like when you’re walking to class or eating dinner, or set up a designated time, such as Friday morning or Sunday afternoon.
  5. Wrap your arms around your parents and squeeze tight! Hugging your parents and telling them you love them is sure to make them feel special. You can pat their shoulders, stroke your hands across their back, or smile when you let go to show even more affection. [6]
    • Even if you’re older, hugging is one of the sweetest (and simplest) ways to express love. Your parents probably miss the days when you were little and used to hug them all the time, making this gesture even more meaningful as an adult.
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Section 2 of 4:

Small Ways to Help Your Parents Out

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  1. If you have a list of regular chores, make sure to do them on time. [7] Make sure to clean up after yourself to reduce the amount of work your parents have to do, such as organizing your room and wiping up spills quickly. Other nice things you can do include:
    • Washing the dishes or putting them in the dishwasher.
    • Taking off your shoes so you don't bring dirt into the house.
    • Cleaning the kitchen or living room when your parents are gone.
    • Putting your dirty laundry in the hamper instead of throwing it on the floor.
  2. If you notice that your parents are overwhelmed, ask them what you can do to help out. Parents have tons of responsibilities, and offering to run an errand on their behalf (or doing something thoughtful) can take some of the weight off of their shoulders. [8] You could:
    • Give them a massage.
    • Make them a cup of tea or coffee.
    • Give them space if they seem extremely stressed.
    • Offer to do extra chores, like mowing the lawn or doing the dishes after dinner.
    • Ask to contribute money toward household expenses (if you’re older or have a job).
  3. If you get annoyed or frustrated with your parents, take a deep breath and calm down. They might be stressed with work or paying the bills, so try to cut them some slack. Being kind and considerate is one of the easiest ways to be nice to your parents, and it’ll make them proud to see how mature you are. [9]
    • If you don’t understand why your parents are disagreeing with you about something, ask them to explain in a polite way.
    • Keep in mind that your parents have a lot more life experience than you. If they don’t want you to hang out with certain people, for example, it might be because they’re trying to protect you.
    • Consider whether your parents’ religious beliefs, cultural background, or upbringing are influencing their opinions and decisions. Even if you don’t share the same values, be respectful of theirs.
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Section 3 of 4:

Ideas to Surprise Your Parents on Parents' Day

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  1. A really simple way to express love toward your parents is to make a homemade card . [10] Use cardstock or construction paper for the base of the card, then embellish the outside with ribbons, stickers, or small photos.
    • Make a list of adjectives that describe your parents (nice, helpful, loving, thoughtful, etc.), then write them in your card. Explain how much you love them and how they have impacted your life.
  2. A thoughtful gift is one of the best ways to thank your parents. If you choose to buy something, it doesn’t have to be expensive—flowers, a mug, or even a bar of their favorite chocolate goes a long way. Remember it’s the thought that counts! [11] Other ideas include:
    • A book
    • A framed photo
    • Homemade cookies
    • Tickets to a movie or concert
    • Merch from their favorite sports team
    • A homemade scrapbook or digital slideshow
  3. Surprise them with dinner on Parent’s Day, and turn your dining area into a restaurant. [12] Light candles, play music, and prepare their favorite food and drinks. If you have siblings, ask them to be servers or kitchen “staff,” and treat your parents like they’re the guests of honor.
    • Make sure to clean up afterward.
    • If you don’t live with your parents, host a virtual dinner party on Skype or Zoom.
  4. Throw a surprise party to honor your parents. It doesn't have to be elaborate—just invite friends and family over, have some food ready, and prepare some simple decorations. Ask an older sibling or relative if you need help setting it up! [13]
    • You could even pick a theme that aligns with your parents' interests, such as an animal, movie, or sport-themed party.
    EXPERT TIP

    Moshe Ratson, MFT, PCC

    Marriage & Family Therapist
    Moshe Ratson is the Executive Director of spiral2grow Marriage & Family Therapy, a coaching and therapy clinic in New York City. Moshe is an International Coach Federation accredited Professional Certified Coach (PCC). He received his MS in Marriage and Family Therapy from Iona College. Moshe is a clinical member of the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT), and a member of the International Coach Federation (ICF).
    Moshe Ratson, MFT, PCC
    Marriage & Family Therapist

    A game night could be a fun activity to plan. You could also plan a fun trip that your parents could take.

  5. Your parents value the time you spend together, so show them you do too! Take the initiative to organize an outing for you and your parents, or pamper them by planning a family vacation . There are lots of fun and inexpensive things you can do close to home: [14]
    • Go to a museum.
    • See a show or movie.
    • Go camping or hiking.
    • Visit the lake or beach.
    • Have a picnic in the park.
    • Visit the zoo or aquarium.
    • Go to their favorite restaurant.
    • Go to an amusement or water park.
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Section 4 of 4:

Nice Things to Say to Your Parents

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  1. One of the best ways to show love is to express your feelings in a letter. Acknowledge the sacrifices your parents have made (and continue to make) for you, and describe specific times they’ve gone above and beyond. Feel free to bring up your favorite memories together, and don’t forget to end with “I love you.” [15] Some sweet phrases you can include are:
    • “I miss you both deeply.”
    • “I’m so lucky to be your child.”
    • “I hope you have an amazing day.”
    • “I’m so blessed to call you my parents.”
    • “You’re the definition of an incredible parent.”
    • “I love you more than all the stars in the sky.”
    • “You’re doing a great job balancing everything.”
    • “I hope I can be an amazing mom/dad like you.”
    • “Words can’t describe how much I appreciate you.”
    • “Thank you for everything. I hope I can repay you someday.”
  2. Get help from someone else if you’re struggling to find the right sentiments. Choose an author, celebrity, or public figure your parents admire, and use their words to express your love . Whether you opt for something warm, witty, or inspirational, sharing a loving message is sure to make them feel appreciated. [16]
    • “Home is people. Not a place.” —Robin Hobb
    • “No matter how far we come, our parents are always in us.” —Brad Meltzer
    • “A parent’s love is whole no matter how many times it’s divided.” —Robert Breault
    • “When you look at your mother, you are looking at the purest love you will ever know.” —Mitch Albom
    • “My father gave me the greatest gift anyone could give another person; he believed in me.” —Jim Valvano
    • “Parents aren’t the people you come from. They’re the people you want to be, when you grow up.” —Jodie Picoult
    • “A father’s goodness is higher than the mountain, a mother’s goodness deeper than the sea.” —Japanese Proverb
    • “My parents' belief in me ignited my own. Their love and support have been my unwavering foundation.” —Tim Cook
    • “One of the greatest titles in the world is parent, and one of the biggest blessings in the world is to have parents to call mom and dad.” —Jim DeMint
    • “Parents are the ultimate role models for children. Every word, movement, and action has an effect. No other person or outside force has a greater influence on a child than the parent.” —Bob Keeshan
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      References

      1. ↑ https://blogs.cedarville.edu/studentlife/2020/08/03/how-to-love-your-parents-well/
      2. ↑ https://cmr.biola.edu/blog/2016/jul/26/25-ways-make-your-parents-day/
      3. ↑ http://www.markmerrill.com/4-things-to-do-to-honor-your-parents/
      4. ↑ http://wiselikeus.com/collegewise/2010/02/five-nice-things-high-school-kids-can-do-for-their-parents.html
      5. ↑ https://cmr.biola.edu/blog/2016/jul/26/25-ways-make-your-parents-day/
      6. ↑ https://cmr.biola.edu/blog/2016/jul/26/25-ways-make-your-parents-day/
      7. ↑ https://cmr.biola.edu/blog/2016/jul/26/25-ways-make-your-parents-day/
      8. ↑ https://cmr.biola.edu/blog/2016/jul/26/25-ways-make-your-parents-day/
      9. ↑ http://wiselikeus.com/collegewise/2010/02/five-nice-things-high-school-kids-can-do-for-their-parents.html
      1. ↑ https://zenhabits.net/10-great-ways-to-show-youre-grateful-today/
      2. ↑ https://zenhabits.net/10-great-ways-to-show-youre-grateful-today/
      3. ↑ https://cmr.biola.edu/blog/2016/jul/26/25-ways-make-your-parents-day/
      4. ↑ https://www.greenvelope.com/blog/surprise-birthday-party
      5. ↑ https://person.ces.ncsu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/101-Screen-Free-Activities.pdf?fwd=no
      6. ↑ https://cmr.biola.edu/blog/2016/jul/26/25-ways-make-your-parents-day/
      7. ↑ https://beechacres.org/ideas-for-parents-to-show-love-support/

      About This Article

      Article Summary X

      If you want to do nice things for your parents, show appreciation for them and help them out around the house. Whenever your parents do something for you, like drive you somewhere or cook dinner, say thank you. Giving them a hug and telling them you love them can go a long way too! Make an effort to ask them how they’re doing and ask about the things they’re interested in. For example, if your dad’s into football, ask him how his team is doing or watch a game with him. You should also try to keep up with your chores so your parents can relax at home. You can even surprise them by doing some extra cleaning or making a meal for them. For more tips, including how to plan a fun day out with your parents, read on!

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