Real English

Conversation 2 Group Study at a Friend’s House

Parent-Child Conversations: How to Confidently Ask Permission to Go Out with Friends!

Introduction

Have you ever felt nervous about asking your parents if you can go out with your friends? Maybe you’re worried about what questions they’ll ask or how to explain your plan clearly. Don’t worry!

In this lesson, we’ll show you how to confidently handle those moments by practicing real English conversations for asking permission. You’ll learn key phrases, real-life conversations, and how to answer the questions parents often ask when you bring up plans to go out.

This isn’t just another lesson—it’s practical English that you can use every day. By the end of this lesson, you’ll feel prepared to have these conversations easily and naturally.

Why It’s Important

Talking to parents is something we all do every day. Asking for permission, like going out with friends, is a normal part of life. It’s important to know how to ask politely and confidently in English.

Key Points:

  • Real-Life Use: Conversations like this are common in families, and they help you practice speaking naturally.
  • Politeness Matters: English uses polite words like “Can I” or “May I” when asking for something. This shows respect.
  • Practice Emotional Tone: Family talks can include feelings like excitement, care, or concern. Learning these helps you sound more natural.
  • Understanding Culture: Knowing how families talk in English-speaking countries helps you understand their culture and values.

Benefits of Learning About the Topic (How to Confidently Ask Permission to Go Out with Friends!)

Learning how to talk about family topics, like asking for permission, improves your overall communication skills. It helps you speak better, understand better, and feel confident when talking to others.

Key Points:

  • Builds Vocabulary: You’ll learn family-related words like “permission,” “friends,” and “plans.”
  • Polite Expressions: You’ll practice polite phrases like “Is it okay if I…”, which you can also use in other situations.
  • Improves Listening Skills: By hearing how parents respond, you’ll get better at understanding natural English conversations.
  • Boosts Confidence: Practicing simple family talks makes it easier to speak in other real-life situations.

Here are 5 Real-Life Conversations on How to Confidently Ask Permission to Go Out with Friends!

Conversation 1: Going to the Park with Friends

  • Parent (Mom)
  • Child (Emma)
Conversation 1 Going to the Park with Friends

Conversation

Emma: Mom, can I talk to you for a second?

Mom: Sure, sweetie. What’s on your mind?

Emma: My friends are going to the park this afternoon. Can I go with them?

Mom: Hmm. Who’s going?

Emma: Just Sarah, Mia, and Jake.

Mom: What time are you planning to leave?

Emma: Around 3 PM. We’ll only stay for about two hours.

Mom: Will there be any adults there?

Emma: Sarah’s mom is coming to keep an eye on us.

Mom: That’s good to know. How are you getting there?

Emma: Sarah’s mom is driving us.

Mom: Okay. But make sure you take your phone and keep it charged.

Emma: Of course, Mom! So… is it okay?

Mom: Yes, you can go. But I want you back by 5:30 PM.

Emma: Thanks, Mom! I’ll be back on time.

Mom: Have fun, but be careful!


Conversation 2: Group Study at a Friend’s House

  • Parent (Dad)
  • Child (Liam)
How to Confidently Ask Permission to Go Out with Friends!

Conversation

Liam: Hey Dad, do you have a minute?

Dad: What’s up, buddy?

Liam: I was wondering if I could go to Sam’s house this evening.

Dad: Sam’s house? Why?

Liam: We have a group project for school. We need to work on it together.

Dad: What kind of project?

Liam: It’s a science project. We’re building a small volcano model.

Dad: Sounds interesting. Who else is going?

Liam: Just Sam and Olivia.

Dad: How long will you be there?

Liam: About three hours. I’ll be back by 8 PM.

Dad: And how are you getting there?

Liam: Sam’s dad will pick me up and drop me back home.

Dad: Alright. But finish your homework before you leave.

Liam: I will, Dad. Thanks!

Dad: And don’t forget to take all your materials for the project.

Liam: Got it. Thanks again!


Conversation 3: Watching a Movie at the Mall

  • Parent (Mom)
  • Child (Sophia)
Conversation 3 Watching a Movie at the Mall

Conversation

Sophia: Mom, can I ask you something?

Mom: Sure. What do you need?

Sophia: My friends and I want to watch a movie at the mall. Can I go?

Mom: Which friends?

Sophia: Lily, Ava, and Ryan.

Mom: What movie are you watching?

Sophia: It’s the new animated one, “Adventures in the Forest.”

Mom: What time does it start?

Sophia: At 4:30 PM.

Mom: How are you getting to the mall?

Sophia: Ava’s older sister is driving us there and back.

Mom: Do you have enough money for tickets and snacks?

Sophia: Yes, I saved some from my allowance.

Mom: Okay, but don’t spend it all on snacks.

Mom: Alright, you can go. Be home by 7:30 PM.

Sophia: Thank you, Mom! I’ll text you when the movie ends.

Mom: Sounds good. Have fun!


Conversation 4: Attending a Birthday Party

  • Parent (Dad)
  • Child (Ben)
Conversation 4 Attending a Birthday Party

Conversation

Ben: Dad, can I talk to you about something?

Dad: Of course. What’s up?

Ben: Ethan invited me to his birthday party this Saturday. Can I go?

Dad: Where is it?

Ben: At his house. It’s just a small party with some friends from school.

Dad: What time?

Ben: From 2 PM to 5 PM.

Dad: Will there be any adults there?

Ben: Yes, Ethan’s parents will be there the whole time.

Dad: What are you guys planning to do?

Ben: We’ll play games, have some cake, and maybe watch a movie.

Dad: Do you need to bring anything?

Ben: Just a gift for Ethan.

Dad: Alright, we’ll pick up a gift tomorrow.

Dad: Okay, you can go. But remember to behave and say thank you to Ethan’s parents.

Ben: I will, Dad. Thanks!

Dad: Have a great time!


Conversation 5: Going Out for Ice Cream

  • Parent (Mom)
  • Child (Oliver)
Conversation 5 Going Out for Ice Cream

Conversation

Oliver: Mom, can I go out with my friends?

Mom: Where do you want to go?

Oliver: Just to the ice cream shop down the street.

Mom: Who are you going with?

Oliver: James and Noah.

Mom: How are you getting there?

Oliver: We’ll walk. It’s only a 10-minute walk.

Mom: Do you have money?

Oliver: Yes, I have enough for a cone.

Mom: Alright. But I don’t want you staying out too long.

Oliver: Don’t worry, Mom. We’ll just get ice cream and come back.

Mom: What time will you be back?

Oliver: By 6 PM, I promise.

Mom: Alright, you can go. Just be careful crossing the street.

Oliver: Thanks, Mom! I’ll text you when I’m there.

Mom: Good idea. Have fun!

Learn More: Learn How to Ask for Homework Help in English Confidently!


Essential Key Phrases and How to Use Them (Asking permission to go out with friends)

  1. Can I talk to you for a second
    • Tips: Use this phrase to politely ask for someone’s attention before starting a conversation. It’s often used when you need to discuss something important.
    • Example: Can I talk to you for a second about my plans for the weekend?
  1. Can I go with them
    • Tips: Use this to ask for permission to join someone or a group. It’s polite and direct.
    • Example: My friends are going to the mall. Can I go with them?
  1. Who’s going
    • Tips: Use this question to ask about the people involved in the plan or event. It helps gather details about the group.
    • Example: Who’s going to the birthday party on Saturday?
  1. What time are you planning to leave
    • Tips: Use this to ask about the timing of someone’s plan. It’s a good way to stay informed.
    • Example: What time are you planning to leave for the park?
  1. Will there be any adults there?
    • Tips: This is often used by parents to check for supervision in plans involving kids or teenagers.
    • Example: Will there be any adults at the movie theater with you?
  1. How are you getting there?
    • Tips: Use this to ask about the mode of transportation for someone’s plan. It’s a practical and common question.
    • Example: How are you getting to your friend’s house?
  1. Is it okay if I
    • Tips: This is a polite way to ask for permission to do something. It sounds respectful and friendly.
    • Example: Is it okay if I go to the ice cream shop with James and Noah?
  1. Do you have enough money?
    • Tips: Use this question to check if someone has the funds they need for their plan. It shows care and practicality.
    • Example: Do you have enough money for snacks at the mall?
  1. Make sure you take your phone
    • Tips: This phrase is commonly used to remind someone to stay prepared or safe during their outing.
    • Example: Make sure you take your phone and keep it charged.
  1. What movie are you watching?
    • Tips: Use this to ask for more details about someone’s plan, especially if it involves entertainment.
    • Example: What movie are you watching with your friends?
  1. What time will you be back?
    • Tips: This question is often asked by parents or guardians to confirm when someone will return. It helps set clear expectations.
    • Example: What time will you be back from the party?
  1. Don’t forget to bring
    • Tips: Use this phrase to remind someone to carry something important with them. It’s helpful in daily conversations.
    • Example: Don’t forget to bring a gift for Ethan’s birthday.
  1. I’ll text you when I get there
    • Tips: This phrase is commonly used to assure someone that you’ll keep them updated about your location.
    • Example: I’ll text you when I get to the park with my friends.
  1. Sounds good
    • Tips: This is a casual way to agree with or approve someone’s plan or idea.
    • Example: Okay, be home by 7 PM. Sounds good?
  1. Have fun, but be careful
    • Tips: Use this to wish someone a good time while reminding them to stay safe. It’s warm and caring.
    • Example: Have fun, but be careful when crossing the street.

Common Questions with Answers Related to this Topic (Asking permission to go out with friends)

Here are some common questions you might hear when talking to your parents about going out with friends. If you learn these questions and practice answering them, you’ll feel more confident in real-life conversations.

  1. Question: Who are you going with?
    • Example Answer: I’m going with Sarah, Mia, and Jake.
  1. Question: Where are you going?
    • Example Answer: We’re going to the park to play some games.
  1. Question: What are you planning to do?
    • Example Answer: We’re planning to get ice cream and hang out for a while.
  1. Question: How are you getting there?
    • Example Answer: Sarah’s mom is driving us there and back.
  1. Question: What time are you leaving?
    • Example Answer: We’re planning to leave around 3 PM.
  1. Question: What time will you be back?
    • Example Answer: I’ll be back by 6 PM.
  1. Question: Is there an adult supervising?
    • Example Answer: Yes, Sarah’s mom will stay with us the whole time.
  1. Question: Do you have your phone?
    • Example Answer: Yes, I’ll take my phone and keep it charged.
  1. Question: Do you have enough money?
    • Example Answer: Yes, I have enough for snacks and drinks.
  1. Question: Are you done with your homework?
    • Example Answer: Yes, I finished everything this morning.
  1. Question: What if something goes wrong?
    • Example Answer: I’ll call you right away if anything happens.
  1. Question: Who else is going?
    • Example Answer: Just my close friends from school—no one else.
  1. Question: How long will you stay there?
    • Example Answer: We’ll only stay for about two hours.
  1. Question: Do you really need to go?
    • Example Answer: Yes, I’d like to spend time with my friends. We don’t get to meet often.
  1. Question: Have you asked your friend’s parents about the plan?
    • Example Answer: Yes, they said it’s okay, and they’ll be there to watch us.
  1. Question: What if it gets late?
    • Example Answer: I’ll make sure to come back on time, but I’ll text you if I’m running late.
  1. Question: Can I trust you to behave?
    • Example Answer: Of course, I’ll be on my best behavior.
  1. Question: What if the plan changes?
    • Example Answer: I’ll let you know right away if there’s any change.
  1. Question: Why do you want to go?
    • Example Answer: I want to relax and spend time with my friends.
  1. Question: Are you taking anything with you?
    • Example Answer: Just my phone, a water bottle, and some money.
  1. Question: How far is the place?
    • Example Answer: It’s about a 10-minute drive from here.
  1. Question: What will you eat there?
    • Example Answer: We might grab some snacks or ice cream, but I won’t eat too much junk food.
  1. Question: Will you stick with your group the whole time?
    • Example Answer: Yes, I’ll stay with my friends and won’t wander off.
  1. Question: Are you sure it’s safe?
    • Example Answer: Yes, it’s a safe place, and there will be adults around.
  1. Question: Do I need to pick you up?
    • Example Answer: No, Sarah’s mom will drop us back home.

Conclusion

Thank you so much for joining this lesson! I hope you found it helpful and feel more confident about having these conversations in English. Remember, every time you practice, you’re one step closer to speaking naturally and fluently.

If you enjoyed this lesson, don’t forget to share it with your friends and leave a comment below—I’d love to hear how this helped you! Keep practicing, and I’ll see you in the next lesson. Take care and happy learning!