Sure, you and your mother -- or aunt or grandma or stepmom -- might not always look at things from the same angle. Put your differences aside for a while and do a few simple things to let Mom know she’s an awesome parent!

1. Tell her a secret.
“My mom is always asking questions like a detective,” says GWD reader Laura, 13. “‘Who did you sit with at lunch?’ ‘Who are you talking to online?’ I feel like she doesn’t trust me anymore!”

It’s not about trust. She’s interested because she loves you. So give her some gab: You’re in control of what you wanna spill. But the more you share, the less she’ll pry.

2. Spin some cool tunes.
Turn your mother on to a new band or musician you love. Teach her a dance step (as long as she pinkie-swears she won’t do it in public!). Then, have your mom introduce you to some of her favorite songs from her teen years. Music is a great way to connect and find out more about a person.

3. Ask embarrassing questions.
Talking to your mom about female stuff can feel a little awkward, but your mom is such a good resource. Whether you’re having problems with your menstrual cycle or are completely confused about cramps, just keep it casual. Take a straight-up approach and start by saying something like, “Mom, how old were you when you got your period?” She’ll be glad you asked.

4. Make some artwork.
Take any piece of artwork you’ve done -- photograph, poem, painting -- and put it in a frame. (You can pick up an inexpensive frame at discount stores.) Moms love handcrafted presents from their kids -- no matter how old you are!

5. Give her a journal.
Buy a blank diary, and on the first page, write a message of gratitude for something your mom has instilled in you through the years: “Thank you for teaching me the value of hard work” or “Thanks for always believing in me.” Every time she opens the book, she’ll be reminded of how much she’s loved and appreciated.

6. Hang out with her.
Make some plans with your mom. Check your local paper for free activities, such as community sporting events or outdoor music festivals. Or have a mother-daughter slumber party: Give each other manicures, pedicures and facials. Fun!

Do your parents expect you to work hard, study harder, dress a certain way? Do they think they can even pick your friends? Negotiating with your parents to loosen up a little is a skill, so here, we show you how to take the pressure off.

“How Can I Get Them to Listen to Me?”
There’s nothing wrong with disagreeing with your parents. In fact, it’s a necessary part of establishing yourself as a separate and unique person. Rather than criticizing their position, let them know how you feel. If you can’t seem to get your point across by talking to them, try writing a note or email. Giving them time to process what you have to say could make all the difference.

“My Parents Are Way More Lenient With My Brother”
We won’t argue the notion that many parents keep a tighter rein on daughters than sons. Maybe it’s because girls are more often victims of abuse or are more likely to experience depression. So make sure your parents know you understand the dangers. Listen to their reasoning … and compromise.

“Why Won’t They Let Me Make My Own Choices?”
Even if you don’t quite buy that their fears are legitimate, the best way to get your parents to be less protective is to ask them for a chance to show that you are responsible and can make smart decisions. Assure them you will ask for help if you’re ever unsure about what to do. Show maturity by letting them know you respect their advice and guidance.

“I Don’t Want to Constantly Be Under Their Watch!”
If you want your folks to let you, say, go to the mall with your friends, you should be familiar with the following safety precautions:

1. Never talk to strangers -- no matter how cute they look or nice they seem.

2. Always have at least $10 in cash on you and don’t spend it on candy -- this is “in case of emergency” money.

3. Be sure your cell phone is charged. No cellie? Have change for a pay phone.

4. Choose a time and spot to get picked up, and be punctual! If your parents pull up to the mall entrance, and you’re not there on
time? Well, game over.

Forget yesteryear’s “whatever” attitude. Today’s teens care about what’s going on in the world. We’ve done our homework, and what we learned is that, sure, kids worry about which jeans to wear, who’s crushing on whom and next weekend’s big game. But the issues that really weigh on your mind add up to some pretty hefty stuff. Check it out.…

You Love Mama Earth
Teenagers worldwide are acutely aware of global issues, particularly those affecting our environment. In a recent study, a whopping 72 percent of teens surveyed understand that global warming is a serious problem. Still, 58 percent of teens don’t consider themselves “environmentalists.” Even so, another study of kids from 13 different countries reveals an “activist attitude,” and the No. 1 viewpoint, held by six of ten global teens is this: “I would fight for a cause I believe in.” So what’s stopping you? We all share one planet -- let’s do what we can to protect her.

You Want Good Grades
You might say, “Ugh,” when it’s time to get up for school in the a.m., but education remains important to most teens. A 2008 Australian study showed that more young adults are finishing high school and seeking college -- and making the grade gives teens around the world the most pressure. In the United States, one in three teens sees science and technology as the most important subjects in school for preparing themselves to deal with the global economy, and 38 percent wish their schools had more up-to-date technology. Topping the list of future expectations for eight out of thirteen global teens? Being rich, financially secure or better off than their parents.

You’re Sick of Bullies
Spending an average of 11 hours a week online, teens are “superconnectors,” constantly engaged in a virtual world. A creative outlet, yes, but cyberspace also provides a platform for kids to pick on each other. Sixteen percent of U.S. teens report having been victims of cyberbullying. Whether it’s derogatory postings, e-mail rumors or IM harassing, online bullying is seen as a greater threat than traditional bullying by nearly one-third of teens. One study shows the primary online perpetrators and victims are girls: A third of girls report being bullied, compared to 10 percent of boys; 17 percent of girls say they had bullied others, while 10 percent of boys admit to it. And researchers believe these numbers are even higher, as many incidents go unreported.

You Have Mixed Feelings
In the 1990s, teens were optimistic about their world. But by 2006, this took a turn as personal safety became a major worry, with 62 percent of kids concerned about terrorism and war, and only 14 percent of global teens confident that the world is becoming a better place. Overall, though, 21^st-century teenagers remain positive -- a passionate and determined generation of young people who believe in themselves and their abilities. Willing to tackle difficult problems, today’s savvy teens recognize the important role technology plays in the future. And in their worldwide social networks, equality abounds with an increased intrapersonal and global understanding. Peace out!

Throwdowns with parents. Bud brawls. Fear of talking to that cutie in chem. It's all so negative. With a few tweaks, you can turn relationship woes into positive vibes.

1. Chat up the crush
It's hard to imagine uttering actual words to the boy you're gaga over, but vow to make a move! Start by simply tossing a smile. Next, kick it up by saying “hi” and asking about his weekend. It might make him comfortable enough to strike up the convo next time. Boys need confidence boosters, just like you do.

2. Make a peace treaty with sibs
Brothers, sisters…they can be a major pain. But admit it -- sometimes you aren't so easy to live with either. Do something fun with a younger sibling on your terms. By giving a little, you'll get a fat dose of respect in return. Wanna get closer to an older sib? Throw an occasional nonchalant compliment instead of nagging and tagging along. Your subtle show of maturity will earn major respect.

3. Be more patient with parents
Do the 'rents need to know everything you do? Look, they love you -- A LOT. But to avoid certain subjects, be the conversation starter. Serve up a few fun facts about your life. This way you keep the topics to your liking, and they feel they're getting to know the person you're growing up to be.

4. Don't sweat the petty friendship stuff
Friends often feel left out…even if the gang had good intentions. Overreacting can explode into a full-on bud battle. Dodge the bud-blowout bullet if you make a pact to shoot each other straight. Two pals didn't invite you to movie night? Gently tell 'em you'd love to be included next time, without creating drama.

5. See teachers as allies, not the enemy
When you score a less-than-stellar grade on a class project, your gut reflex might be to blame an “insanely difficult” teacher. But they aren't the bad guys -- they just want you to learn. Meeting with a teacher after school shows you're making an effort…and you might pick up clues on what to expect from the next pop quiz!