I have met my boyfriends parents twice and both times seemed to have gone pretty smooth. The problem is that I dont know what to talk about when I am around his parents. My boyfriend said it would be nice if I could talk to his mom more when I see her and to kind of spend a little time with her so we can get to know each other. What are some good conversation starters and what should I talk to her about because this is all new to me?

Sincerely,
A Curious Conversationalist



Helena replies:

Edward replies:

Well, there are a whole host of things you can talk about. I'm a little curious about your statement that this "is all new to you" because it implies that you haven't spoken to anyone in a long time. Unless you were born a mute, you should just get to know his parents as you would any other strangers. At first, I'd refrain from making fun of them or appearing rude. No cursing, you know the drill.

As long as you don't make any major faux pas on the etiquette front, you can talk about almost anything. I say almost because you probably want to skip the politics/religion quagmires. If you want to talk about some local sports teams, that's good, but it helps to get a heads up from your boyfriends so you don't make a verball gaffe and end up alienating them both.

If you want to get to know his mom (or, rather, if your boyfriend wants you to get to know his mom) then ask your boyfriend what his mother enjoys talking about. If she's into gardening, ask her about that. If she gets really fired up about movies or her job, ask her about that. The trick is actually being genuinely interested in learning about his parents, or at least seeming like you are. If you have no desire to get to know either of them, I'd suggest you fake it. Insert sexist joke here.

Brad replies: