Surviving Family Drama: Tips for Getting Along at Home

High school’s tough enough without family drama adding to the mix. Whether it’s clashing with parents over curfew or dealing with a sibling who’s always in your space, home life can feel like a battleground. The Stone Path Project’s Social and Emotional Pillars are here to help you navigate those tensions and create a more peaceful vibe at home. Here’s how to get along better with your family.

Tip 1: Listen Before You Speak
When things get heated, take a breath and really listen to what your parent or sibling is saying. Try repeating back what you heard, like, “I hear you’re upset because I didn’t clean my room.” It shows you’re trying to understand, which can calm things down.

Tip 2: Set Boundaries (Nicely)
If your little brother keeps borrowing your stuff without asking, set a clear boundary. Say something like, “I’m cool with you using my charger, but please ask first.” Be firm but kind—it helps avoid resentment. One teen, Tara, used this with her sister and said it cut their arguments in half.

Tip 3: Find Common Ground
Look for things you can do together that everyone enjoys. Maybe it’s watching a funny show with your parents or playing a board game with your siblings. Shared activities can build better vibes. For example, Jayden started cooking dinner with his dad once a week, and it gave them a chance to talk without fighting.

Tip 4: Know When to Walk Away
If an argument’s escalating, it’s okay to take a break. Politely say, “I need a few minutes to cool off,” and step away—go to your room or take a quick walk. Coming back when everyone’s calmer can make a huge difference in solving the issue.

Family drama isn’t fun, but you can make it better with small steps. Try one of these tips this week, like listening more during your next family convo, and see how it changes the vibe at home. You’ve got this!

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Written by Madison Stone.

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