For example, if your girlfriend does ballet and you see an ad in the paper about a dance performance, say something like “Sarah would love that; she is a really talented ballerina. " Your parents want to know that you are serious about your girlfriend. If you only talk about your girlfriend when she is around, your parents may not think you are very serious about her and they may not put as much effort into talking with her or getting to know her, which will make interacting with them when she is around less easy.
If you want to show your girlfriend your support and affection, put your arm around her or give her hand a squeeze. This is a mature level of physical interaction between a couple and will not make your parents uncomfortable. Avoid prolonged kissing or touching. Although this might be normal for the two of you around others, this is not a good way to act around your parents. They will appreciate your maturity if you abstain from this kind of behavior around them. [2] X Research source If you’re both in a relationship for a long time in front of your parents, a comfortable embrace or a peck are usually acceptable.
One good thing you can talk about is a funny story that involves both of you. This puts your relationship in a positive light and will put a smile on everyone’s face! Smile when you’re talking. You may feel really awkward but smiling is a way to put everyone at ease. Studies even show that smiling can improve your mood and makes you feel more relaxed![3] X Research source
Just because you are choosing to do an activity, it does not need to be something incredibly exciting or time-consuming. Even having dinner could be a good thing to do all together. Other options could be talking a walk around the neighborhood or seeing a play or movie together. An activity that involves physical exertion is always a good option, as studies show that exercise increases your mood. Pick an activity that you feel suits you all best. Go for something casual over something fancy. You want to feel at ease when you are all doing something together. A casual setting can help you to relax, while a formal one might make you feel nervous or stiff.
Make sure that you are not paying attention only to your girlfriend or only to your parents. If you are at dinner, make sure everyone is included in the conversation. If you and your girlfriend are on the same ping-pong team, for example, make sure to talk to your parents as well. Try to keep up the conversation between your parents and your girlfriend. Just because you are all doing an activity, that doesn’t mean you can’t talk! If you are playing a game, talk about how its going, it doesn’t have to be anything deep! Don’t be too competitive. Maybe you’re a naturally competitive person. Or maybe your mom always beats you at bowling and you’re finally winning for once. It’s important not to be competitive when you are doing activities with your parents and your girlfriend. The point of doing something together is to bond, not to win. Try to remember that even if you have a competitive urge.
