There is this moment in parenting that causes me to cringe. I literally want to stop time and run as fast as I can in the other moment. More on that moment later.
On the other hand, have you ever had a moment where you actually stopped in your tracks, a bit breathless, and dumbfounded that you hadn’t thought of that response before that moment?
Yeah, my husband does that to me several times a month, at least, which, honestly pisses me off. He is an only child. What does he know about sibling dynamics? How does he always nail rock star responses with our kids? Here is an example you have to check out: 5 Rock Star Responses for Kids During Challenging Moments.
Don’t get me wrong, I will take it. He is brilliant in that “being able to read people” and “being able to influence people” type of way. So, why wouldn’t I expect the same for his parenting?
Here is the thing: there has to be a way to catch a child’s attention in these typical every day, yes, I am going to say it, annoying exchanges parents have with children.
Responses During Cringe Worthy Parenting Moments
The other day my five year old ran up to us, frustrated with his older brother. He said, “Jack said I was dumb and that I am ugly!”
I turned swiftly to respond in a way any typical parent would respond but my husband stepped in:
“Do you believe him?”
That response alone was enough to pause my son.
“Do you think he is right?”
There he goes again.
My five year old stopped and I saw the wheels turning in his mind.
“No.” he replied.
If your child doesn’t reply “No,” than that is feedback for you. There is more going on with his peers and more importantly with the fragile developing self esteem. Tough feedback but good to know so you can address it early.
So what are the moments that cause you to cringe? Or better yet to cause your mouth drop open wide in astonishment?
Tell me. I want to know. I need to know. Clearly I have work to do. ;-)
Talk to you soon,
Marnie