How do I tell my parents?
Pour out your heart to Heavenly Father. Pray for courage to talk with your parents.
Steps to tell your parents:
Choose a time when you will have complete privacy. Tell them that you have to talk to them about a serious matter and ask them to not interrupt you until you have finished.
Be completely honest. Tell them your situation and ask them for their help.
Start the conversation with the maturity that you will need from now on. You’re in a tough situation and facing it in a mature way will make it easier.
Give them some time to absorb this news.
Avoid arguing. You will have to expect some shock and anger, but at this time of your life, your parents might be the best friends you have.
After the shock settles, talk with your parents about how you will handle the situation. If you decide to keep your baby and your parents agree to continue letting you live at home, ask what rules will be involved. What can you and they provide?
It’s crucial that all parties involved, including grandparents, know that the care and responsibility for the baby lies with you—the mother. If rules aren’t made, things could get messy.
If you’re considering adoption, ask your parents for their full support.
Tell them that while achieving your dreams might be more difficult, it’s still possible.
“I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me” (Philippians 4:13).
Heavenly Father “is rich in mercy” and will support us in our trials, troubles, and afflictions (see Ephesians 2:4 and Alma 36:3).
“…Because Jesus walked such a long, lonely path utterly alone, we do not have to do so.” Elder Jeffrey R. Holland, “None Were with Him,” Liahona, May 2009.
For more information, explore these resources:
“Single and Pregnant—Important Decisions” by Marissa King. Liahona, July 2022.