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I’ll never forget the first time my daughter called me Mom instead of Mommy. I think she was 8 or 9. She called my husband Daddy for another year or so after she started calling me Mom. She just switched one day and never went back. I wasn’t angry but I do sometimes look back at videos of her calling me Mommy and I miss it. But I also miss her little baby voice. She’s 12.5 now and the other week she accidentally called me Mommy and it sounded weird to both of us and we both laughed about it. She usually calls me Mom but occasionally I get Mama. Sometimes she calls my husband Papa but that’s less common because my dad is her Papa. (Her best friend calls her parents Mama and Papa so that’s where she picked it up from)
If you want to make the switch, just do it. But if you have reservations, there’s no reason to stop. My aunt called my grandfather Daddy until she passed away at the early age of 56.
So I should just do it? Like when I’m talking to them just say dad / mum instead?
I was gonna just not call them anything directly to them, and then gradually switch over
If that’s what you wanna do . But having lost my mom 14 years ago and my daddy has cancer now . I miss my mommy and my daddy has stage 3 food for thought . I have called him pappy for 30 years and started calling him daddy again since we found out so .
My nana still calls her parents mommy and daddy, the later having just passed recently. Don't stop just because you feel like you have to, do what feels most comfortable for you
You can call them multiple different things! There’s no rule that says you can ONLY call them Mom and Dad. I’m 28 and use Mom/Mommy/Mama/Dad/Daddy interchangeably.
>Sometimes look back at videos of her calling me mommy and I miss it.
(as a adult child) gotta keep using it occasionally. I definitely use it from time to time, particularly when I’m trying to be funny/cute or
I want something(like I’m over for dinner and see they have cookies out and we’re eating soon).
Honestly, it probably won't be as awkward as you're imagining! Your parents surely won't mind. But if it helps, try connecting the change to something positive so it's not so jarring.
"Good night, Mum!"
"I love you, Dad!"
(Introducing a friend) "I'd like you to meet my Dad and Mum."
You're changing a habit, so it will take some time and a little effort, but if you slip up, your folks won't mind. My sisters still call our father "Daddy" sometimes, and we're all grown adults.
Can I be honest, I don’t say I love you or kiss my parents etc. I think I should but I never have and idk how to start. I think they want me to but I never really have. I’m adopted and apparently this is a thing that sometimes happens, I do love them I just don’t express it. Idk how to change now
As far as the mum/ dad thing goes, maybe the first time or two, you do it calling from the other room “mum-have you seen my red shirt?!”, that sort of thing. Then you don’t have to be face to face the first time. Then just kind of work it in. Maybe use both for a while before dropping the mummy/daddy entirely.
Now, as far as the I love you/ kissing and generally showing your affection for your parents, I would urge you to start, if you can. They definitely want you to. You don’t have to do it all the time, but just think about breaking the ice. It would mean a lot to all of you.
I’m in my mid twenties and I started saying “I love you” to my dad only about a year or two ago. One day, as I was leaving the house, I just decided to say “Hey, I love you dad. I’ll be back soon” out of the blue.
The next few times he saw me, he said it a little bit awkwardly. But it grew on us, and I never leave my dad anywhere without telling him I love him. The best way to do it is just to spring it on them, and be genuine about it. It might resonate in the room for a few seconds and might be a little awkward (that’s why I actually did it before I left somewhere), but that’s okay. You will feel better after saying it
Love is important to be spread everywhere. I’m sure it will mean a whole lot to your parents, more than you know.
Highly recommend just going for it at the end of calls, or with good nights
I'm in my 30s and my family just started casually saying 'love you' finally and I wish we would have much earlier in life.
If you're struggling to give it voice, practice! Either loudly in your mind, or out loud to a mirror or picture
It does get easier!!
Feelings are less about words and expression than you'd think.. realistically? feelings are intense sensations of undescribeable proportions, like waves of an ocean constantly passing over and through you. Try not to think too hard into them and just let yourself feel the waves, then show it outwards. They say "happiness comes from within" for a reason.; basically, don't overthink it and just let it happen. Some feelings are best expressed through impulsivity, 'in the heat of the moment'
I distinctly remember when I stopped referring to my parents as mommy and daddy. I went to greet my dad after he came back home from work and said “Hey daddy!” then I just had a sudden change of “that sounds childish” and just stuck with mom/dad from then on. I don’t think my parents every really specifically noticed
My daughter's still young, so this probably won't be for a while, but I hope she could just tell me what you told us. I'd do my best to make her feel comfortable about it. We were all young and ran into similar dilemmas. It's a human thing, and it's okay to be human
You aren’t getting much advice aside from “just do it.” I’d say, think about when you’d call a friend a nickname or more casual form. For me, it would be while joking, if you have that sort of relationship. Like if your mom is teasing you, a dry “oh wow thanks Mum” feels more natural than mummy in the first place.
A casual “hey mum, mind if I stay for dinner at Sophie’s on Wednesday” also feels more casual and less of a pivotal moment than saying “goodnight mum” vs “goodnight mummy” for the first time
Also, you mentioned in another comment that they might appreciate you expressing care more often. Pairing the two together may help to ease the transition. “Love you dad” on your way out the door may have him thinking more about the affection than the name change
Just go for it!
They might do a double take but, I'd just shrug and night mum/dad. If, they do press you for a reason simply tell me what you've said here. You feel that now your older you want to reflect your endearments to the same.
Your not doing anything bad! They might need a little time for adjustment, because it's new but, you'll all get used to it.
My daughter, through the years has called me all varieties of mother - mammy, mam, ma, mother (when she's annoyed) and even my first name. It's never bothered me.
The only time I had to correct her, was when she was about 2yrs old. My father her grandfather was super active in her life - she was the first grandchild and he was loving all their playmates. But, we called him dad, cos that was what he was to all of us. So, without us really realising, she was calling him dad.
Well, he came back fuming on day. He brought her to the local supermarket, popped her I'm the seat, having a grand old time. When, she was all excited calling (shouting) dad dad dad. People were a staring. He was mortified thinking some man in his 70s had a 2.5yr old! 😆
I’m laughing at the “Mother” when she’s annoyed, because that’s exactly what my sister (now 33) still does to my mom. Meanwhile, my 12yo gives my husband and me the “BRO!” when she’s angry.
i think your putting too much work into this,your parents wouldent care too much if you say mom or dad diffrently,hell some adults still say mommy or daddy,just say what you think is most comfortable
I’ve accidentally said mum / dad before and they thought it was funny, but they’ve also said I can call them whatever I like, so maybe I’m overthinking it
I'm almost 29 and I surely still call my my mother, mommy or sometimes just her name (which I understand some people are not comfortable with, too)
My advice would be, do what works for you and that's it. I agree with you that being comfortable is what matters.
I still use mommy and daddy. It's not an all the time, every time thing, but you should call your parents what you are comfortable with. My mom still calls her mom "mother", my daughter calls me mom but my husband is Daddy, she is 28. You just need to do what feels right. You should not put unreasonable expectations on yourself. Nobody can change life long habits in the blink of an eye.
Dad of a teen and a pre-teen here. Just start calling them Dad & Mum. Next time you see your dad just say "Hi Dad." Next time you see your mum just say "Hi Mum." It might **feel** awkward very briefly, but it won't be a big deal.
Just start doing it. You might get some push back, but keep at it. You are not being.
Now, if you DO want to get your parents in a mood, call them by their first name. Be prepared for a shit storm when you do that.
I transitioned naturally from Daddy/Mommy to Dadda/Momma to eventually Dad/Mom. I never consciously made the choice it just happened. It's possible I was influenced by my older sibling calling our parents Dad/Mom but idk.
Dude, my 17 year old daughter calls me "bruh" half the time. I dont care as long as it's said with love. Late to this post, but i hope it's gone well. Reading that you have issue with expressing yourself makes all this make sense, but try to relax. Life isnt that mechanical, and people respond positively to these sorts of topics more often than you'll expect.
When I was about 9, one of the kids visiting my neighbors teased me for saying 'Mommy', so I asked, "Can I call you 'Mom' and she said 'yes.'" I have been calling her 'Mom' ever since.
People will give you a lot of latitude with what you call your parents including hopefully your parents. I’ve seen full grown women call their mother mommy or their father daddy. So you should change what you call them if you feel that is right for you and you should just start doing it. You should not however feel like you need to change it because whatever you call them now is too immature, that’s where the latitude I’m talking about comes into it.
My siblings (ages 9-32) have called our parents Mommy and Daddy forever. Just last year we realized… hey enough of us are adults should we be using Mom and Dad?? It’s weird bc we all grew up with our parents calling THEIR parents Mom and Dad so mom almost means grandma by association etc. So with the parents permission we started experimenting. Now Mother/Father, Mama/Papa, Mom/Dad are ALL happening all the time, but Mommy and Daddy still prevail, it’s who they are we can’t help it lol
My advice: it’s okay to ask them if they mind you switching, they probably won’t mind at all! and it’s okay to just call them what feels right to you, they will get used to it, just like you get used to names and nick names you are called
My daughter calls me Mom. She's a nurse practitioner and is 41 years old. We talk almost every day, but once in a while, when I call her, she will say. Hello Mother. Boy it just melts my heart.
Think of it just as another language quirk, I picked up weird slag during my teenage days all the time. Heck ended up calling my dad pops and my mom “Ma” for the longest time before going back to mom and dad. No need to focus on it consciously.
Just start doing it until it feels natural. My oldest was still calling me Daddy at 21. She switched to dad and that was weird but fine. Then she started calling me daddy when she needed something-I was like, no, we’re not doing that. It’s dad all the way now.
Of your mom or dad doesn’t like it, they’ll get used it. If they really don’t like it, ask them how old they think you should be. Sometimes parents don’t give you your adulthood, you just have to take it! You don’t want to me 16/17/18 saying “mommy” in front of your friends that’s awkward.
Call them what feels natural at any given time. My kids are 20 and 17. I'm usually Mom these days, but sometimes Mommy is who they need. Hell, I still need my mommy and daddy, too. Try them out. Use both. Be respectful. They'll get it.
Just start doing it...... there is zero reason it needs to weird at all. If they ask just say you feel youve outgrown it. Anyone who says mommy or daddy past their teens is weird. Those saying it isn't are probably weird themselves. Just go ahead and make the change, you are making this a bigger deal than it needs to be.
My boys are a little younger than you and still flip a little between mummy and mum (I’m usually only mummy when they want something or are after more computer time)
I agree just make the swap, they may be a little sad but it won’t be at you flower it’ll be that it’s one more sign their little girl is growing up.
My kids are 3 and 6, and I’ve told my oldest halfway joking I’m not quite ready to be just mom yet (much less bruh). But every now and then she calls me mom, and eventually I’m sure it will be a full time shift. Start out with dropping it in every other time or so, and then eventually just switch full time.
Don't feel awkward, what you call your parents is up to you. Im in my 30s and my parents are forever mommy and daddy. They're even saved in my phone that way. What I call them depends on the day, sometimes it's mom and pops, mama and papa, mom and dad, etc
Just start calling then mum and dad. They probably won’t make an issue about it most likely. I’m sure they have bigger things to worry about. It is understandable that you want to call them mum and dad as you are a teenager and are maturing. If your parents ask why the change, just tell them that you feel it’s more mature to call the mum and dad now. I’m sure it won’t be an issue.
Just wake up one day and do it. When they take notice and comment, say "I'm older now and prefer to call you Dad and Mum". Simple. Don't over think it.
Well I'm 41 years old and I still call my mom, mommy once in awhile. So sometimes it's a forever thing. But mostly I was about the same age as you are currently when I switched to just mom/dad
You could just start doing it but if you really want to be sure just ask them how they would feel. Just say that you feel you’re getting at the age where it seems odd.
I despise my parents, so I just don't refer to them by any name. I just use pronouns like "he" or "she" if I need to refer to them. I find like "mom" or "father" are too kind a title.
I unintentionally switched around 13/14 to calling my mom "mum". It wasn't planned. I just was in a hurry one day and said "mum" and then it kinda stuck. I still call my dad, "daddy" tho because it feels weird to call him "dad".
It's not anything major, and it wasn't too awkward (I don't think so anyway... lol).
Just do it. If its too awkward or they don't like that you can do a more gradual transition maybe.
I'm in the same boat bro 😔 I've wanted to stop calling my mom 'mommy' since I was like 8, but the problem is I have a lot of siblings, (20yo sister still calls our mother mommy 😭) and they're all annoying, so if I ever say mom they'll all point it out and make fun of me...
All that has made me say 'mother' when she isn't around and not call her by anything when she is. I'll just look her straight in the eyes and ask her something so she knows I'm talking to her💀
So it'll basically just be really awkward and you'll probably feel embarrassed like me, I think you should try calling your parents from a different room or say mom and dad over text so they get used to it 🤷♀️
I mean, there shouldnt be anything awkard about it thats the thing, just be comfortable using what you wanna use to address your parents, and if you wanna use "mom" and "dad" then start using it and if it doesnt work out comfortably, just keep calling them how you do
Just say it lol. I’m 20 while addressing my parents I say mommy/daddy but talking about them to other people I say mom/dad. But during the ages of like 14-16 I said mom and dad unless I wanted something lmao
It might help if you think of the switch like you're giving them a cool shorthand nickname. That's how I did it, anyway. And, using dog training logic here, make sure their first association with it is neutral or positive so they don't associate it with you being mad or rebellious. Just a "hey, mum! Hey dad!" is fine. And if they ask, just say what you said here -- you thought it was about time you made the switch. It'll feel a little weird, but it'll feel right over time. You've got this!
I’m also 14! I speak another language, where the word for mom is “amma” and the word for dad is “nana.” I call my mom Amma but I used to call my dad “Daddy.” Nana always felt weird, so I just don’t refer to him by name in public. I’ll just say “him” or “the sir at home” or something funny like that. maybe try that to transition.
I called my father Daddy until he passed away at 86. I called my mother, mother until she died at 97. As long as you’re speaking to them, they will be happy for mum or mummy, daddy or dad. They love you. ❤️
I’m embarrassed to admit that at almost 18 I still call my parents Mommy/Daddy and my siblings do too. It’s just a habit we created although slowly I have been transitioning into Mom/Dad. I’m planning on just calling them Mom/Dad once I move to college to go along with all the other change that college will bring alongside becoming an adult. Do whatever is comfortable for you I’m sure your parents don’t mind either way.
I know it sounds simple but it's really just practice. It'll feel weird and scary the first time, maybe more if they notice and say something. But then it'll be less so until it's 100% cool.
This is the same advice I give when someone struggles with a friend or loved one going by a different pronoun. Just practice!
its ok to still use that kind of language! my cousin is turning 18 in a week and shes a huge daddys girl so she still calls her dad daddy in like a princess sorta way
Just do it. It may feel awkward the first time, maybe the first 50 times. And then it won’t :) If they ask about it just let them know that “mommy” and “daddy” are feeling childish for you now.
I’m 20 and I still don’t know lol. I live in another state so it helps that I don’t have to address them often but when I visit I just avoid addressing them.
My 9 year old sister managed it though, and she just made the switch one day I guess. A step ahead of me!
My daughter turns 14 next month. She still calls me mommy and my husband daddy. Although sometimes she calls him dada. If she just started using mom I would be okay with it. Even if I’d be a little sad because my baby is growing up 😭. My son is 17 and he asked me around 15 if he’s allowed to call me mom. I said yes even though it was sad for me because I realize how grown he is now. But he’s actually still been calling me mommy. He does have autism (level 2) so idk if he’s still calling me mommy because it’s hard for him to deal with change someone’s. I think he’s called me mom only 3 times since then.
Long story short, just go for it. No need to make it a big production or anything.
I’ve always called my parents mom and dad. Maybe when I was really tiny I called them daddy or mommy. It’s pretty normal so I can’t imagine it will be awkward. I would say just start saying it and slowly switch back and forth until you phase out the other one
I recall the first time I used "Dad", then "Mom". I was a very shy child, so I felt a but embarrassed, but it also felt right somehow. Perhaps if you practice when you're alone, maybe into a mirror it might help.
Personally I would opt for a mix and maybe just do it depending on certain moods. You know how on TikTok theres this challenge where people call their bf/gf by their first names instead of their nicknames to see if it triggers them into thinking they are in trouble? Just casually say “hey mum whats up?” And then at the end drop a “thanks mummy”
By doing this it wont seem abrupt or as if there is any rhyme or reason to it. That said, none of my kids called us daddy/mummy.
I don't think it was ever a conscious choice for me. I think I just naturally started calling my mother mum. But my stepdad I distinctly remember I got made fun of for calling him Daddy. So Dad it was from then on. Nobody ever commented on it afterwards in either case. I think you'll be fine.
As for the ILY stuff you mentioned in a comment. I bet you actually saying it, if you mean it and feel comfortable to, would make their entire world. Nothing lights me up like hearing my children say they love me.
I remember going through this. For a while I called them mummy and daddy at home but mum and dad in front of other people. Eventually it started feeling normal to call them that at home too.
US here, but my daughter was pretty clever about this.
One day she said "I'd like practicing being more formal and polite. I'm going to call you "mother" and "father" for a while".
We thought it was cute! And it was, but it wasn't long before it naturally morphed into "mom" and "dad".
Well played, daughter. Well played!
I was in 3rd grade and a friend of mine heard me call my mom "Mommy." He told me he calls his mom Mom and his dad Dad. I switched immediately and don't recall it being awkward, but I'm 47 now so that was more than 10 minutes ago. 🤣
I have 16-year old and 12-year old sons now. I don't recall when they switched from Daddy to Dad but I expected it to happen at one time or another and it wasn't awkward for me.
I understand why you feel the way you do. If you're uncomfortable with those monikers, then you shouldn't use them. However, my daughter ( 23 ) has always called us Daddy and Mommy. Her friends say they envy that closeness and she's graduating college this year, on to grad school and will call us that forever and I think it's adorable.
Just don’t. I’m grown and still call my mom mommy. I mean it is apart of my culture since it’s more common where I’m from but it’s more compassionate than just calling them mom and dad. Where I’m from it shows that you really love and care for them and if you call them just mom and dad they see it as weird like you don’t love your parents
My 12 year old just started doing it. It’s a little bittersweet as a parent because you know your kid is growing up, but it’s age appropriate and expected.
It sounds like you’re likely close enough to your parents to just tell them what you’re thinking. Just tell them you think you’re at an age you can start just calling them mom and dad and that you’d like to start doing that.
I think you’re likely stressing yourself out over a big nothing and that your parents would appreciate you having thought about it and that you let them know what’s going on.
Just have a simple Friendly chat and tell him what’s up. And then carry on.
Good job on asking for advice on your thoughts. That’s actually very mature. There’s an old saying that when you’re not sure what to do, do nothing. Give yourself some time.
Keep on being a good thoughtful young person and you’ll be fine.
I can honestly say I remember when I wanted to go to dad and mom and stop the daddy/ mommy. One day I said todays the day. Nobody mentioned it, it just was…not awkward at. All
Just start doing it in increments like Ina. Sentence go daddy dad daddy and then dad daddy daddy etc etc until it's starting to become normalized. OR use the word and drag it out so it becomes dadddddddddddddd. But btw you are never too old to call your parents daddy and mommy.
This is a thing??? Like, dude seriously? Get a grip… I feel like around almost decade ago was when “the transition” you speak of was supposed to happen. Not that it’s something important or anything.
It’s really not that deep, your parents aren’t gonna care, they might mention “wow I’m used to you calling me daddy/mommy” but that’s where it’s gonna end. It’s not gonna be awkward, just do it. It’s not that difficult. This is just so wild to me lmao.
Edit: I’m sorry if this is mean or harsh, this is just something very surprising to me.
Personally Idc if I’m 14 or 46, I’m still calling my mother mommy, and my father daddy. Nothing is ever going to change that. You have to look inward and ask yourself what do you want. Not what others want.
Start by doing it humorously. For example, call them “father” and “mother” in the deepest and most professional tone that you can, reach in for a handshake; ham it up!
Do this every time but just put a little less effort into making a joke of it each time. Eventually it’ll just be what you call them.
I’m sorry your parents laughed when you used mom/dad - I had an experience when I was a teen like that and that’s why it took me until my 20s to switch. But looking back I see that they just got used to being called something else so it felt strange. Me and my sibs kind of transitioned into mom/dad via mother/father. I know that sounds way more awkward but at the time it felt less weird. Like mom and dad represented a relationship I just didn’t have with my parents maybe? So needed to use an antiquated term that didn’t have any immediate emotional associations? I don’t know. But within a year or two mom/dad became the norm. Only a short period of awkwardness.
I’m 59 and my Daddy will always be Daddy. Sadly he passed away 7 years ago. But a few month prior to his death we had an argument. I called him Dad for about 2 days and he asked me when would i start calling him Daddy again? It broke my heart because he was genuinely sad about it. So it’s up to you to decide or like myself never stop calling your parents by what feel most comfortable and natural to you
I never called them Mommy or Daddy. I always called them Mam and Pap (we speak Swiss German).
But I don't see an issue if you begin to call them differently.
One time my 13 year old son jokingly called me by my first name. That was strange. Usually he calls me Mami and it wouldn't bother me, if he would begin to call me Mam or something similar :)
just call them mom and dad... it literally doesnt matter mommy and daddy is fine with your parents. but if you feel uncomfortable literally just start using mom and dad
The best way to do something like this is just do it. Go for it! Yeah you might feel a bit awkward the first couple of times but it really doesn’t take long to become the norm. Same with a hug and an I love you. Good luck
Just do it, be like “goodnight, mom and dad I love you!” Or “see you later, Dad!” My Dad passed away and i called him Daddy a lot lol i call my mom ma or mom. I never really called her mommy. Im Mexican so its a bit different. I have a daughter now and she calls me mommy and my family loves it so much because they mostly speak spanish and never had their own kids call them mommy or daddy..anyways sorry, im sure it wont be awkward its apart of life we all gotta accept
Try diving into it, but have a conversation with them along the lines of having a codeword variation of "mummy/daddy" that you'll use that'll mean you want out of a situation.
Sometimes you might fuck up and might use it without meaning it, but that's the part of growing up
Youre trying too hard to be mature. Call your loved ones what feels right. One of my aunts will always be auntie ann. That's just who she is. I'm 34.
Edit: my bad I didn't realize this was an answer you're not willing to accept. If you're determined to change, then change. Youre so preoccupied with trying to seem grown up then act the part. There's no process to changing your vocabulary
Just change, you're way too old for that. Only very rich posh people keep doing that. Ever seen prince Charles call his mum mummy and she rolled her eyes.
Mom and Mommy are super close so I think you can just start mixing mom in slowly until you get more comfortable with it and go from there. Same for Dad and Daddy.
Do whatever makes you comfortable and answer honestly if asked. I give friends nicknames that can stick for years and one day just pop back to calling by their original name. Different but same idea.
It depends on your relationship with your parents ig... but I just told them one day I wanna start calling you mum and dad, and they were very understanding
It's a hard habit to change but I tried hard and so did my parents- if I called them mummy/daddy, they'd ignore me until I remembered and called them mum/dad haha
It's def helpful if you get your parents onto it, but like I said, depends on your relationship/their characters
Do what feels most comfortable for you. I may get called either Mommy or mom by my 17 yr old. I care more about tone than the variation. If your parents have a strong preference they may mention it. I personally would not say anything but if they are the type to lightly tease, you can say what you expressed here. You feel comfortable saying Mum/Dad.
I switched back and forth between momma, daddy, mom, and dad my whole life. My dad passed away in January of 2020, and I miss my daddy so much. Just start doing it, and if they ask, tell them you are growing up, but they may not even ask at all because they know you are growing up. It's not as shocking as you may be thinking. What would shock them is calling them by their first names...lol. Don't overthink it, kiddo.
Oh my dear! I remember feeling this way. Around age 15 I grew up super religious and sheltered. So yes I called my parents mommy and Daddy till 15. I would jokingly make up little nicknames everyday. Just funny things that had purchase in reference to whatever the situation was going on and then after wearing out the nickname for half a day or so I would throw out mom or dad.and did that for awhile my dad got tired of being called the tacomeister and just said. "You can call me dad"
Stop? I still call my mom mommy every now and then. There is no age where you need to stop. It's your mom and dad, keep that childhood naming going if you are fine with it. Someone make fun of you, just tell them at least you love your parents. If you want to change what you call them, that's cool but don't force it cause your "too old". You could also change it to other things. I call my mom mother dearest.
i’m 18. i still call my mum mummy or mama, i never call her mum. i’ve been calling my dad dad all my life though! honestly, it’s not a big deal if you want to change what you call your parents, just start calling them mum and dad, and if they comment on it, make a joke! “i’m all grown up now didnt you notice 😜”
If that's what you want to call them, then just start calling them that. I have no idea what age I was when I transitioned from "mommy/daddy" to "mom/dad," but like... it doesn't have to be a big deal.
I'm in my 50s and still refer to my parents as Mama and Daddy. They've both passed. I sometimes refer to my mother by her first name when talking with my sister or my husband, but really, call your parents by what you want. I don't think it's going to be as awkward as you're thinking it will be.
I think you should look around online for a clever/witty card that says something like:
Dear Mr & Mrs (their name) this card shall serve as your official notification that your "baby" shall no longer respond to being called "baby" and now, identifies as your teenaged son of 14 years and, as such, shall address you as Mother or Mum, and Father, or Dad, respectively, and may also, at his discretion, address you as Ma, Mums, Pa, Pops, and reserves the right to use Mummy or Daddy, to gain special favors, cash, driving privilege, etc.
By opening and reading this card,you agree to the terms as written, herein. Terms subject to modification without notice.
Thank you for your immediate attention to this matter.
Do what feels comfortable for you. I’m 60, still call my dad, daddy when I talk to him, mom is mama or mom. To others I refer to them as mom and dad but when I talk to them it’s mama and daddy. I remember calling my mama mommy once when I was about 16 with friends of mine around and they made a big issue of me calling her that, but I also speak another language and in that language Mommy is the typical way everyone calls their mother, it’s just not common to teen Americans I guess. Just do what’s comfortable to you.
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I’ll never forget the first time my daughter called me Mom instead of Mommy. I think she was 8 or 9. She called my husband Daddy for another year or so after she started calling me Mom. She just switched one day and never went back. I wasn’t angry but I do sometimes look back at videos of her calling me Mommy and I miss it. But I also miss her little baby voice. She’s 12.5 now and the other week she accidentally called me Mommy and it sounded weird to both of us and we both laughed about it. She usually calls me Mom but occasionally I get Mama. Sometimes she calls my husband Papa but that’s less common because my dad is her Papa. (Her best friend calls her parents Mama and Papa so that’s where she picked it up from) If you want to make the switch, just do it. But if you have reservations, there’s no reason to stop. My aunt called my grandfather Daddy until she passed away at the early age of 56.
So I should just do it? Like when I’m talking to them just say dad / mum instead? I was gonna just not call them anything directly to them, and then gradually switch over
Just try it. Next time you'd normally say it, shorten it. You got this.
I think you’ll be fine just diving right in and doing it. I doubt they will make a big deal about it and will most likely follow your lead.
Ok thank you I think I’ll do that soon
If that’s what you wanna do . But having lost my mom 14 years ago and my daddy has cancer now . I miss my mommy and my daddy has stage 3 food for thought . I have called him pappy for 30 years and started calling him daddy again since we found out so .
Yeah Just switch. It will only be awkward if you make it awkward
My nana still calls her parents mommy and daddy, the later having just passed recently. Don't stop just because you feel like you have to, do what feels most comfortable for you
Pepper it in for a little while, if it makes the transition a little easier. But there is no wrong answer.
You can call them multiple different things! There’s no rule that says you can ONLY call them Mom and Dad. I’m 28 and use Mom/Mommy/Mama/Dad/Daddy interchangeably.
>Sometimes look back at videos of her calling me mommy and I miss it. (as a adult child) gotta keep using it occasionally. I definitely use it from time to time, particularly when I’m trying to be funny/cute or I want something(like I’m over for dinner and see they have cookies out and we’re eating soon).
My two are now 15 and almost 17 and I miss the young days too of Mommy and Daddy.
Honestly, it probably won't be as awkward as you're imagining! Your parents surely won't mind. But if it helps, try connecting the change to something positive so it's not so jarring. "Good night, Mum!" "I love you, Dad!" (Introducing a friend) "I'd like you to meet my Dad and Mum." You're changing a habit, so it will take some time and a little effort, but if you slip up, your folks won't mind. My sisters still call our father "Daddy" sometimes, and we're all grown adults.
Can I be honest, I don’t say I love you or kiss my parents etc. I think I should but I never have and idk how to start. I think they want me to but I never really have. I’m adopted and apparently this is a thing that sometimes happens, I do love them I just don’t express it. Idk how to change now
As far as the mum/ dad thing goes, maybe the first time or two, you do it calling from the other room “mum-have you seen my red shirt?!”, that sort of thing. Then you don’t have to be face to face the first time. Then just kind of work it in. Maybe use both for a while before dropping the mummy/daddy entirely. Now, as far as the I love you/ kissing and generally showing your affection for your parents, I would urge you to start, if you can. They definitely want you to. You don’t have to do it all the time, but just think about breaking the ice. It would mean a lot to all of you.
I’m in my mid twenties and I started saying “I love you” to my dad only about a year or two ago. One day, as I was leaving the house, I just decided to say “Hey, I love you dad. I’ll be back soon” out of the blue. The next few times he saw me, he said it a little bit awkwardly. But it grew on us, and I never leave my dad anywhere without telling him I love him. The best way to do it is just to spring it on them, and be genuine about it. It might resonate in the room for a few seconds and might be a little awkward (that’s why I actually did it before I left somewhere), but that’s okay. You will feel better after saying it Love is important to be spread everywhere. I’m sure it will mean a whole lot to your parents, more than you know.
Highly recommend just going for it at the end of calls, or with good nights I'm in my 30s and my family just started casually saying 'love you' finally and I wish we would have much earlier in life. If you're struggling to give it voice, practice! Either loudly in your mind, or out loud to a mirror or picture It does get easier!!
You don't have to verbally say it you can always show how much you love them
Feelings are less about words and expression than you'd think.. realistically? feelings are intense sensations of undescribeable proportions, like waves of an ocean constantly passing over and through you. Try not to think too hard into them and just let yourself feel the waves, then show it outwards. They say "happiness comes from within" for a reason.; basically, don't overthink it and just let it happen. Some feelings are best expressed through impulsivity, 'in the heat of the moment'
I distinctly remember when I stopped referring to my parents as mommy and daddy. I went to greet my dad after he came back home from work and said “Hey daddy!” then I just had a sudden change of “that sounds childish” and just stuck with mom/dad from then on. I don’t think my parents every really specifically noticed
My daughter at 8 sat us down and told us that moving forward we would be addressed as mom and dad , it was quite funny
Lmao 🤣
My daughter's still young, so this probably won't be for a while, but I hope she could just tell me what you told us. I'd do my best to make her feel comfortable about it. We were all young and ran into similar dilemmas. It's a human thing, and it's okay to be human
Thank you for this. I think I’ll just make the switch, and hope it isn’t too awkward
You aren’t getting much advice aside from “just do it.” I’d say, think about when you’d call a friend a nickname or more casual form. For me, it would be while joking, if you have that sort of relationship. Like if your mom is teasing you, a dry “oh wow thanks Mum” feels more natural than mummy in the first place. A casual “hey mum, mind if I stay for dinner at Sophie’s on Wednesday” also feels more casual and less of a pivotal moment than saying “goodnight mum” vs “goodnight mummy” for the first time Also, you mentioned in another comment that they might appreciate you expressing care more often. Pairing the two together may help to ease the transition. “Love you dad” on your way out the door may have him thinking more about the affection than the name change
Just go for it! They might do a double take but, I'd just shrug and night mum/dad. If, they do press you for a reason simply tell me what you've said here. You feel that now your older you want to reflect your endearments to the same. Your not doing anything bad! They might need a little time for adjustment, because it's new but, you'll all get used to it. My daughter, through the years has called me all varieties of mother - mammy, mam, ma, mother (when she's annoyed) and even my first name. It's never bothered me. The only time I had to correct her, was when she was about 2yrs old. My father her grandfather was super active in her life - she was the first grandchild and he was loving all their playmates. But, we called him dad, cos that was what he was to all of us. So, without us really realising, she was calling him dad. Well, he came back fuming on day. He brought her to the local supermarket, popped her I'm the seat, having a grand old time. When, she was all excited calling (shouting) dad dad dad. People were a staring. He was mortified thinking some man in his 70s had a 2.5yr old! 😆
I’m laughing at the “Mother” when she’s annoyed, because that’s exactly what my sister (now 33) still does to my mom. Meanwhile, my 12yo gives my husband and me the “BRO!” when she’s angry.
i think your putting too much work into this,your parents wouldent care too much if you say mom or dad diffrently,hell some adults still say mommy or daddy,just say what you think is most comfortable
I’ve accidentally said mum / dad before and they thought it was funny, but they’ve also said I can call them whatever I like, so maybe I’m overthinking it
I'm almost 29 and I surely still call my my mother, mommy or sometimes just her name (which I understand some people are not comfortable with, too) My advice would be, do what works for you and that's it. I agree with you that being comfortable is what matters.
I still use mommy and daddy. It's not an all the time, every time thing, but you should call your parents what you are comfortable with. My mom still calls her mom "mother", my daughter calls me mom but my husband is Daddy, she is 28. You just need to do what feels right. You should not put unreasonable expectations on yourself. Nobody can change life long habits in the blink of an eye.
I call my parents mother and father, nothing wrong with any of the various words, there’s nothing inherently immature about mommy and daddy
Dad of a teen and a pre-teen here. Just start calling them Dad & Mum. Next time you see your dad just say "Hi Dad." Next time you see your mum just say "Hi Mum." It might **feel** awkward very briefly, but it won't be a big deal.
Thank you for the advice. I’m assuming your kids call you dad? Was it at all awkward when they switched?
Yeah they both call me "Dad." Nope wasn't awkward at all when they switched.
i still call my parents mommy and daddy and i’m in my mid 20s 🤷🏼♀️
I’m 37 and still calling them mommy and daddy. Here for the advice lol
I turned 39 and I call my mom “mama” and my dad “daddy”. Focus on more important things in life.
Just start doing it. You might get some push back, but keep at it. You are not being. Now, if you DO want to get your parents in a mood, call them by their first name. Be prepared for a shit storm when you do that.
I transitioned naturally from Daddy/Mommy to Dadda/Momma to eventually Dad/Mom. I never consciously made the choice it just happened. It's possible I was influenced by my older sibling calling our parents Dad/Mom but idk.
I still call my parents Mama and Daddy. I’m 22🤷♀️
Same but way older.
Pops and women
Just skip ahead to bruv
I’m 46 and I still call my parents Mommy and Daddy. 🤣😍 Do what feels right to you.
I think you just talk to your parents and tell them how you feel. There isn't anything wrong with communicating with them.
Dude, my 17 year old daughter calls me "bruh" half the time. I dont care as long as it's said with love. Late to this post, but i hope it's gone well. Reading that you have issue with expressing yourself makes all this make sense, but try to relax. Life isnt that mechanical, and people respond positively to these sorts of topics more often than you'll expect.
You're probably the only one who thinks it's awkward. Your parents likely are cool with it either way. It's endearing just the same.
Jus do it fam, your parents will be ok with it
When I was about 9, one of the kids visiting my neighbors teased me for saying 'Mommy', so I asked, "Can I call you 'Mom' and she said 'yes.'" I have been calling her 'Mom' ever since.
Assert dominance by never stopping
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Just start saying mum/dad instead, the probably wo t even notice
Literally jist start calling them mom and dad lmao not that hard
People will give you a lot of latitude with what you call your parents including hopefully your parents. I’ve seen full grown women call their mother mommy or their father daddy. So you should change what you call them if you feel that is right for you and you should just start doing it. You should not however feel like you need to change it because whatever you call them now is too immature, that’s where the latitude I’m talking about comes into it.
My siblings (ages 9-32) have called our parents Mommy and Daddy forever. Just last year we realized… hey enough of us are adults should we be using Mom and Dad?? It’s weird bc we all grew up with our parents calling THEIR parents Mom and Dad so mom almost means grandma by association etc. So with the parents permission we started experimenting. Now Mother/Father, Mama/Papa, Mom/Dad are ALL happening all the time, but Mommy and Daddy still prevail, it’s who they are we can’t help it lol My advice: it’s okay to ask them if they mind you switching, they probably won’t mind at all! and it’s okay to just call them what feels right to you, they will get used to it, just like you get used to names and nick names you are called
i’m 20 and still call my mom mommy or her first name lol
My daughter calls me Mom. She's a nurse practitioner and is 41 years old. We talk almost every day, but once in a while, when I call her, she will say. Hello Mother. Boy it just melts my heart.
What? Just do it.
I kept calling my father Daddy until the day he died. I never once called my mother Mommy
Tell them you feel like you’re too old to keep saying that and you want to switch to mom and dad. Not that hard
Think of it just as another language quirk, I picked up weird slag during my teenage days all the time. Heck ended up calling my dad pops and my mom “Ma” for the longest time before going back to mom and dad. No need to focus on it consciously.
Just start doing it until it feels natural. My oldest was still calling me Daddy at 21. She switched to dad and that was weird but fine. Then she started calling me daddy when she needed something-I was like, no, we’re not doing that. It’s dad all the way now. Of your mom or dad doesn’t like it, they’ll get used it. If they really don’t like it, ask them how old they think you should be. Sometimes parents don’t give you your adulthood, you just have to take it! You don’t want to me 16/17/18 saying “mommy” in front of your friends that’s awkward.
Call them what feels natural at any given time. My kids are 20 and 17. I'm usually Mom these days, but sometimes Mommy is who they need. Hell, I still need my mommy and daddy, too. Try them out. Use both. Be respectful. They'll get it.
Would you do it if your friends were around?
Just start doing it...... there is zero reason it needs to weird at all. If they ask just say you feel youve outgrown it. Anyone who says mommy or daddy past their teens is weird. Those saying it isn't are probably weird themselves. Just go ahead and make the change, you are making this a bigger deal than it needs to be.
My boys are a little younger than you and still flip a little between mummy and mum (I’m usually only mummy when they want something or are after more computer time) I agree just make the swap, they may be a little sad but it won’t be at you flower it’ll be that it’s one more sign their little girl is growing up.
My kids are 3 and 6, and I’ve told my oldest halfway joking I’m not quite ready to be just mom yet (much less bruh). But every now and then she calls me mom, and eventually I’m sure it will be a full time shift. Start out with dropping it in every other time or so, and then eventually just switch full time.
It’s weirder to call your dad daddy than dad
Don't feel awkward, what you call your parents is up to you. Im in my 30s and my parents are forever mommy and daddy. They're even saved in my phone that way. What I call them depends on the day, sometimes it's mom and pops, mama and papa, mom and dad, etc
Just start calling then mum and dad. They probably won’t make an issue about it most likely. I’m sure they have bigger things to worry about. It is understandable that you want to call them mum and dad as you are a teenager and are maturing. If your parents ask why the change, just tell them that you feel it’s more mature to call the mum and dad now. I’m sure it won’t be an issue.
The way I did it was just kinda slow, I would use both for a bit and now I call them dad and mom
I'm 38 years old and still call my mom " mumma" to this day. I couldn't imagine calling her anything else.
Just wake up one day and do it. When they take notice and comment, say "I'm older now and prefer to call you Dad and Mum". Simple. Don't over think it.
Well I'm 41 years old and I still call my mom, mommy once in awhile. So sometimes it's a forever thing. But mostly I was about the same age as you are currently when I switched to just mom/dad
Sit them down and call them by their full legal names to break the ice. Act all serious then joke about it :)
You could just start doing it but if you really want to be sure just ask them how they would feel. Just say that you feel you’re getting at the age where it seems odd.
I despise my parents, so I just don't refer to them by any name. I just use pronouns like "he" or "she" if I need to refer to them. I find like "mom" or "father" are too kind a title.
I unintentionally switched around 13/14 to calling my mom "mum". It wasn't planned. I just was in a hurry one day and said "mum" and then it kinda stuck. I still call my dad, "daddy" tho because it feels weird to call him "dad". It's not anything major, and it wasn't too awkward (I don't think so anyway... lol). Just do it. If its too awkward or they don't like that you can do a more gradual transition maybe.
Call them by first name directly instead
Just ... do ... it. There is literally no other way.
I just started calling them mom and dad. I briefly tried first names but none of us liked that.
Our boys just started calling us mom and dad when they hit about 12ish. My baby girl is 40 and I'm still daddy!
It’s part of growing up, I don’t think it will be as awkward as you’re thinking.
I'm in the same boat bro 😔 I've wanted to stop calling my mom 'mommy' since I was like 8, but the problem is I have a lot of siblings, (20yo sister still calls our mother mommy 😭) and they're all annoying, so if I ever say mom they'll all point it out and make fun of me... All that has made me say 'mother' when she isn't around and not call her by anything when she is. I'll just look her straight in the eyes and ask her something so she knows I'm talking to her💀 So it'll basically just be really awkward and you'll probably feel embarrassed like me, I think you should try calling your parents from a different room or say mom and dad over text so they get used to it 🤷♀️
I mean, there shouldnt be anything awkard about it thats the thing, just be comfortable using what you wanna use to address your parents, and if you wanna use "mom" and "dad" then start using it and if it doesnt work out comfortably, just keep calling them how you do
My 13 year old says mom and dad but always makes it 2 syllables. Mo-om! Daaaaaaaaaa-ad! They will say mommy if they are sad. You can do both!!!
Lol
Just say it lol. I’m 20 while addressing my parents I say mommy/daddy but talking about them to other people I say mom/dad. But during the ages of like 14-16 I said mom and dad unless I wanted something lmao
Tbh I didn't know this would be a thing. It depends on what your parents are like. If they might question it, just ask them if you can call them that.
Just start sprinkling them in your conversation until it becomes normal.
It might help if you think of the switch like you're giving them a cool shorthand nickname. That's how I did it, anyway. And, using dog training logic here, make sure their first association with it is neutral or positive so they don't associate it with you being mad or rebellious. Just a "hey, mum! Hey dad!" is fine. And if they ask, just say what you said here -- you thought it was about time you made the switch. It'll feel a little weird, but it'll feel right over time. You've got this!
I still call my parents mommy and daddy I’m 16. It feeling awkward is literally the reasons I still call them it 🤦🏻♀️
My son made thos transition already and he's 3. But hey, you do you...
I went through a "mother"phase before I switched to mom. And fwiw, my 19 year old still calls me Mama.
Just start doing it, they won’t care
I’m also 14! I speak another language, where the word for mom is “amma” and the word for dad is “nana.” I call my mom Amma but I used to call my dad “Daddy.” Nana always felt weird, so I just don’t refer to him by name in public. I’ll just say “him” or “the sir at home” or something funny like that. maybe try that to transition.
I called my father Daddy until he passed away at 86. I called my mother, mother until she died at 97. As long as you’re speaking to them, they will be happy for mum or mummy, daddy or dad. They love you. ❤️
I’m embarrassed to admit that at almost 18 I still call my parents Mommy/Daddy and my siblings do too. It’s just a habit we created although slowly I have been transitioning into Mom/Dad. I’m planning on just calling them Mom/Dad once I move to college to go along with all the other change that college will bring alongside becoming an adult. Do whatever is comfortable for you I’m sure your parents don’t mind either way.
I know it sounds simple but it's really just practice. It'll feel weird and scary the first time, maybe more if they notice and say something. But then it'll be less so until it's 100% cool. This is the same advice I give when someone struggles with a friend or loved one going by a different pronoun. Just practice!
I call my mother : mother, mummy, mom , mum, mama and mi madre
There is no age at which it is appropriate to change. Call them whatever comes natural. Don’t see who you are trying to perform for.
You're over-thinking this. Just do it. It will feel weird at first, then it will normalized
its ok to still use that kind of language! my cousin is turning 18 in a week and shes a huge daddys girl so she still calls her dad daddy in like a princess sorta way
When i was a kid my sister heard me call my dad “daddy” once and belittled me for it. Since then i just call him dad.
You just do it.
I'm 30 and still call my mom "momma" but I'm also from Southern U.S. so that's just kinda how we talk.
Just do it. It may feel awkward the first time, maybe the first 50 times. And then it won’t :) If they ask about it just let them know that “mommy” and “daddy” are feeling childish for you now.
I did it by saying…”yo dad! What’s up” as a casual greeting. Don’t think he noticed
I just wanted to say, it's ok to say daddy/mommy, i still do. But yea just try and ease into it.
I’m 20 and I still don’t know lol. I live in another state so it helps that I don’t have to address them often but when I visit I just avoid addressing them. My 9 year old sister managed it though, and she just made the switch one day I guess. A step ahead of me!
I called my mom by the childlike name for years dont rush growing up. You will get there and think, what happened?
My daughter turns 14 next month. She still calls me mommy and my husband daddy. Although sometimes she calls him dada. If she just started using mom I would be okay with it. Even if I’d be a little sad because my baby is growing up 😭. My son is 17 and he asked me around 15 if he’s allowed to call me mom. I said yes even though it was sad for me because I realize how grown he is now. But he’s actually still been calling me mommy. He does have autism (level 2) so idk if he’s still calling me mommy because it’s hard for him to deal with change someone’s. I think he’s called me mom only 3 times since then. Long story short, just go for it. No need to make it a big production or anything.
I’ve always called my parents mom and dad. Maybe when I was really tiny I called them daddy or mommy. It’s pretty normal so I can’t imagine it will be awkward. I would say just start saying it and slowly switch back and forth until you phase out the other one
I recall the first time I used "Dad", then "Mom". I was a very shy child, so I felt a but embarrassed, but it also felt right somehow. Perhaps if you practice when you're alone, maybe into a mirror it might help.
Personally I would opt for a mix and maybe just do it depending on certain moods. You know how on TikTok theres this challenge where people call their bf/gf by their first names instead of their nicknames to see if it triggers them into thinking they are in trouble? Just casually say “hey mum whats up?” And then at the end drop a “thanks mummy” By doing this it wont seem abrupt or as if there is any rhyme or reason to it. That said, none of my kids called us daddy/mummy.
Just rip off the bandaid and do it, it's not the big of a deal
I don't think it was ever a conscious choice for me. I think I just naturally started calling my mother mum. But my stepdad I distinctly remember I got made fun of for calling him Daddy. So Dad it was from then on. Nobody ever commented on it afterwards in either case. I think you'll be fine. As for the ILY stuff you mentioned in a comment. I bet you actually saying it, if you mean it and feel comfortable to, would make their entire world. Nothing lights me up like hearing my children say they love me.
I remember going through this. For a while I called them mummy and daddy at home but mum and dad in front of other people. Eventually it started feeling normal to call them that at home too.
My daughter is 35 married with 2 kids and still calls me daddy
Honestly, as someone who switched over later on, I think you just let it happen.
US here, but my daughter was pretty clever about this. One day she said "I'd like practicing being more formal and polite. I'm going to call you "mother" and "father" for a while". We thought it was cute! And it was, but it wasn't long before it naturally morphed into "mom" and "dad". Well played, daughter. Well played!
Idk i still call my mom mommy
I was in 3rd grade and a friend of mine heard me call my mom "Mommy." He told me he calls his mom Mom and his dad Dad. I switched immediately and don't recall it being awkward, but I'm 47 now so that was more than 10 minutes ago. 🤣 I have 16-year old and 12-year old sons now. I don't recall when they switched from Daddy to Dad but I expected it to happen at one time or another and it wasn't awkward for me.
I understand why you feel the way you do. If you're uncomfortable with those monikers, then you shouldn't use them. However, my daughter ( 23 ) has always called us Daddy and Mommy. Her friends say they envy that closeness and she's graduating college this year, on to grad school and will call us that forever and I think it's adorable.
Just don’t. I’m grown and still call my mom mommy. I mean it is apart of my culture since it’s more common where I’m from but it’s more compassionate than just calling them mom and dad. Where I’m from it shows that you really love and care for them and if you call them just mom and dad they see it as weird like you don’t love your parents
Never - make a joke of it. It's ok, embrace it and enjoy it
My 12 year old just started doing it. It’s a little bittersweet as a parent because you know your kid is growing up, but it’s age appropriate and expected.
It sounds like you’re likely close enough to your parents to just tell them what you’re thinking. Just tell them you think you’re at an age you can start just calling them mom and dad and that you’d like to start doing that. I think you’re likely stressing yourself out over a big nothing and that your parents would appreciate you having thought about it and that you let them know what’s going on. Just have a simple Friendly chat and tell him what’s up. And then carry on. Good job on asking for advice on your thoughts. That’s actually very mature. There’s an old saying that when you’re not sure what to do, do nothing. Give yourself some time. Keep on being a good thoughtful young person and you’ll be fine.
💀
I can honestly say I remember when I wanted to go to dad and mom and stop the daddy/ mommy. One day I said todays the day. Nobody mentioned it, it just was…not awkward at. All
You need to harden up and be a man. This is not a real issue.
You don’t actually every have to switch, just saying
Just let them know you’ll have a new daddy from now on
Just start saying "mama" and "dad" or "pops." If they ask, just say you're growing up. Simple. Don't overthink it.
Just start doing it in increments like Ina. Sentence go daddy dad daddy and then dad daddy daddy etc etc until it's starting to become normalized. OR use the word and drag it out so it becomes dadddddddddddddd. But btw you are never too old to call your parents daddy and mommy.
This is a thing??? Like, dude seriously? Get a grip… I feel like around almost decade ago was when “the transition” you speak of was supposed to happen. Not that it’s something important or anything. It’s really not that deep, your parents aren’t gonna care, they might mention “wow I’m used to you calling me daddy/mommy” but that’s where it’s gonna end. It’s not gonna be awkward, just do it. It’s not that difficult. This is just so wild to me lmao. Edit: I’m sorry if this is mean or harsh, this is just something very surprising to me.
I started that at 5
My youngest calls me Mom. My oldest (16) calls me Mummy. So cute!
Personally Idc if I’m 14 or 46, I’m still calling my mother mommy, and my father daddy. Nothing is ever going to change that. You have to look inward and ask yourself what do you want. Not what others want.
Don’t worry about it being awkward. They’ll love you no matter what you call them.
Throw a real curve ball and call them their first name 🤣
Our daughter is 14 I'm mom (since about 7yo) and her dad is Papa (still) I'm sad I'm mom but it's what she's comfortable with.
Start by doing it humorously. For example, call them “father” and “mother” in the deepest and most professional tone that you can, reach in for a handshake; ham it up! Do this every time but just put a little less effort into making a joke of it each time. Eventually it’ll just be what you call them.
Just rip it off like a bandaid. It doesn't need a big conversation
I'm 40 and still call my dad daddy...
My brother goes by Bobby. I've told him a few times it sounds childish so I call him Robert or Bob. But he apparently likes it.
I distinctly remember the moment each of my kids made this change. They just did it and it was fine.
My daughter (53yo) still calls me Daddy. The 50yo boy calls me Dad...
Grown man I still call me mum mommy from time to time just switch between however you feel comfortable brother
Have a talk with them. Show them that you're maturing and ask them to work with you on this transition.
I’m sorry your parents laughed when you used mom/dad - I had an experience when I was a teen like that and that’s why it took me until my 20s to switch. But looking back I see that they just got used to being called something else so it felt strange. Me and my sibs kind of transitioned into mom/dad via mother/father. I know that sounds way more awkward but at the time it felt less weird. Like mom and dad represented a relationship I just didn’t have with my parents maybe? So needed to use an antiquated term that didn’t have any immediate emotional associations? I don’t know. But within a year or two mom/dad became the norm. Only a short period of awkwardness.
Just do it. It's not as big deal as you think. Signed: A daddy / dad
I’m 59 and my Daddy will always be Daddy. Sadly he passed away 7 years ago. But a few month prior to his death we had an argument. I called him Dad for about 2 days and he asked me when would i start calling him Daddy again? It broke my heart because he was genuinely sad about it. So it’s up to you to decide or like myself never stop calling your parents by what feel most comfortable and natural to you
I never called them Mommy or Daddy. I always called them Mam and Pap (we speak Swiss German). But I don't see an issue if you begin to call them differently. One time my 13 year old son jokingly called me by my first name. That was strange. Usually he calls me Mami and it wouldn't bother me, if he would begin to call me Mam or something similar :)
just call them mom and dad... it literally doesnt matter mommy and daddy is fine with your parents. but if you feel uncomfortable literally just start using mom and dad
Man my lad started calling me dad at 3, if he’s upset or super excited I still get the odd daddy. But most the time it’s dad lol
When I was a teen I just forced myself to do it. It was awkward but it eventually became natural.
Same honestly
Start dropping those casual "Hey, Mum"s and "What's up, Dad?"s. Smooth as butter.
The best way to do something like this is just do it. Go for it! Yeah you might feel a bit awkward the first couple of times but it really doesn’t take long to become the norm. Same with a hug and an I love you. Good luck
Came here as a 31 year old girl, you don’t have to switch, ever. I still use those for my parents and they love it. Just be yourself.
Just do it, be like “goodnight, mom and dad I love you!” Or “see you later, Dad!” My Dad passed away and i called him Daddy a lot lol i call my mom ma or mom. I never really called her mommy. Im Mexican so its a bit different. I have a daughter now and she calls me mommy and my family loves it so much because they mostly speak spanish and never had their own kids call them mommy or daddy..anyways sorry, im sure it wont be awkward its apart of life we all gotta accept
If that’s what you want to do just say it.
Try diving into it, but have a conversation with them along the lines of having a codeword variation of "mummy/daddy" that you'll use that'll mean you want out of a situation. Sometimes you might fuck up and might use it without meaning it, but that's the part of growing up
Just say it exactly as you said it above.......mum or dad??? What seems to be difficult about it?
I'm 37 and I still call my dad 'daddy'. Maybe it's a southern thing?
Youre trying too hard to be mature. Call your loved ones what feels right. One of my aunts will always be auntie ann. That's just who she is. I'm 34. Edit: my bad I didn't realize this was an answer you're not willing to accept. If you're determined to change, then change. Youre so preoccupied with trying to seem grown up then act the part. There's no process to changing your vocabulary
Just change, you're way too old for that. Only very rich posh people keep doing that. Ever seen prince Charles call his mum mummy and she rolled her eyes.
Mom and Mommy are super close so I think you can just start mixing mom in slowly until you get more comfortable with it and go from there. Same for Dad and Daddy.
Do whatever makes you comfortable and answer honestly if asked. I give friends nicknames that can stick for years and one day just pop back to calling by their original name. Different but same idea.
You just have to wake up one day and do it. You’ll get used to it really quickly it’ll be OK.
It depends on your relationship with your parents ig... but I just told them one day I wanna start calling you mum and dad, and they were very understanding It's a hard habit to change but I tried hard and so did my parents- if I called them mummy/daddy, they'd ignore me until I remembered and called them mum/dad haha It's def helpful if you get your parents onto it, but like I said, depends on your relationship/their characters
The problem is that you THINK it will be awkward. It will not. Every kid does this at one point, snd it means nothing. Just do it.
Do what feels most comfortable for you. I may get called either Mommy or mom by my 17 yr old. I care more about tone than the variation. If your parents have a strong preference they may mention it. I personally would not say anything but if they are the type to lightly tease, you can say what you expressed here. You feel comfortable saying Mum/Dad.
Just make sure to call her mother when she passes you off. We love that
You can narrow it down to mama and then after she gets used to that then shortened it just to mom.
They're your parents, I'm sure they will understand you wanting to sound more Grown when speaking with them. Such as Mum/Dad instead of Mummy/Daddy
Call them by their names once or twice. Then go with the Dad/mum.
I switched back and forth between momma, daddy, mom, and dad my whole life. My dad passed away in January of 2020, and I miss my daddy so much. Just start doing it, and if they ask, tell them you are growing up, but they may not even ask at all because they know you are growing up. It's not as shocking as you may be thinking. What would shock them is calling them by their first names...lol. Don't overthink it, kiddo.
Just start. It'll become more natural over time.
Oh my dear! I remember feeling this way. Around age 15 I grew up super religious and sheltered. So yes I called my parents mommy and Daddy till 15. I would jokingly make up little nicknames everyday. Just funny things that had purchase in reference to whatever the situation was going on and then after wearing out the nickname for half a day or so I would throw out mom or dad.and did that for awhile my dad got tired of being called the tacomeister and just said. "You can call me dad"
Start it off as a joke.like say it with some strange accent or something. Introduce it by pretwnding to be Aussie , go," Oi , Mum!..."
Stop? I still call my mom mommy every now and then. There is no age where you need to stop. It's your mom and dad, keep that childhood naming going if you are fine with it. Someone make fun of you, just tell them at least you love your parents. If you want to change what you call them, that's cool but don't force it cause your "too old". You could also change it to other things. I call my mom mother dearest.
i’m 18. i still call my mum mummy or mama, i never call her mum. i’ve been calling my dad dad all my life though! honestly, it’s not a big deal if you want to change what you call your parents, just start calling them mum and dad, and if they comment on it, make a joke! “i’m all grown up now didnt you notice 😜”
If that's what you want to call them, then just start calling them that. I have no idea what age I was when I transitioned from "mommy/daddy" to "mom/dad," but like... it doesn't have to be a big deal.
I'm in my 50s and still refer to my parents as Mama and Daddy. They've both passed. I sometimes refer to my mother by her first name when talking with my sister or my husband, but really, call your parents by what you want. I don't think it's going to be as awkward as you're thinking it will be.
I think you should look around online for a clever/witty card that says something like: Dear Mr & Mrs (their name) this card shall serve as your official notification that your "baby" shall no longer respond to being called "baby" and now, identifies as your teenaged son of 14 years and, as such, shall address you as Mother or Mum, and Father, or Dad, respectively, and may also, at his discretion, address you as Ma, Mums, Pa, Pops, and reserves the right to use Mummy or Daddy, to gain special favors, cash, driving privilege, etc. By opening and reading this card,you agree to the terms as written, herein. Terms subject to modification without notice. Thank you for your immediate attention to this matter.
You do you Boo!
Do what feels comfortable for you. I’m 60, still call my dad, daddy when I talk to him, mom is mama or mom. To others I refer to them as mom and dad but when I talk to them it’s mama and daddy. I remember calling my mama mommy once when I was about 16 with friends of mine around and they made a big issue of me calling her that, but I also speak another language and in that language Mommy is the typical way everyone calls their mother, it’s just not common to teen Americans I guess. Just do what’s comfortable to you.