Defy the “You’re Too Young” mandate: 
Many a time, parents don’t feel comfortable giving their teen that extra leeway because they feel he hasn’t proved that he can handle it.  If you want adults to think that you’re old enough to handle a later curfew or stay home alone, here are some “dos” and “don’ts.”

DO:
Stay calm and collected.  Ask why you aren’t allowed to do what you want to do and be sure to listen to the reasons. 

DO:
Come prepared to rationally present your side of the issue.  Keep in mind that “because” and “but Joey gets to do it!” are not particularly valid arguments.  Think of times in the past that you have acted responsibly and bring them to the table. 

DO:
Be ready to bargain.  Try to meet parents halfway.  Making a little headway is better than making none at all.

DO NOT:
Start a screaming match.  If you want to prove how mature you are for your age, a temper tantrum is a very bad idea.

DO NOT:
Ignore the other side of the argument.  There may be a misunderstanding that can be resolved if you listen, and you will also gain a better understanding of why you are being restricted.

DO NOT:
Decide to say, “I can do whatever I want!” and ignore the rules.  Using this “strategy” is almost a guarantee that you will not be seen as a mature person, and will end you in trouble.  Additionally, this will not be a shining example of your adult behavior if another age-oriented issue arises in the future. 

IMPORTANT NOTE TO KEEP IN MIND:
THERE ARE SOME THINGS THAT YOU SIMPLY CANNOT DO IF YOU ARE UNDER A CERTAIN AGE. Things like driving, buying tobacco, and drinking are restricted to those over a certain age.  It may seem that these restrictions are unfair, but they are laws – breaking a law to feel a temporary sense of maturity is not worth it.  Keep in mind that one day, you will be able to do it – just not right now.

Prevent Ageism: 
Being told you are a certain way even when you aren’t is never a fun experience.  Ageism can affect anybody, elderly or young. It’s important to remember the golden rule – do unto others, as you would have others do unto you.  If you know how bad it feels to be told you are a certain way because of how old you are, then why would you want to make anybody else feel bad as well?  Before you leap to any conclusions about somebody, get to know that person.  Don’t assume that a person over sixty is feeble and depressed, or a person under twenty is brash and foolish.  Placing arbitrary labels on any group of people is never the right way to view human beings.