Tough Truth

Tough Truth: 

All parents do things that harm their children in some ways. 

However, good parents do their best to try to minimize the damage and recognize their shortcomings! 

Avoiding or dodging tough topics with your child is one of the ways we can actually cause harm, all while doing so with the wonderful intentions of doing the opposite. When we doge or tell our children they are too young to know something, we are instilling some anxiety and self-doubt. We are telling our children that they are not strong enough, smart enough, or capable of handling something.  

Let’s think about times that we as adults want more information about a topic but are told no. Let’s think about how this makes us feel. For example, if you hear rumors at work that some people may get laid off so you ask your boss about it what do you want to hear? The truth! Sure, the truth may cause some initial pain or shock, but since you are a strong, smart, capable person, you can use this information to figure out your next professional move. If on the flip side your boss dodges your question, you will leave the conversation anxious and probably lay in bed playing out a million scenarios. You may feel upset with your boss for not just telling you what they know. You may feel like you deserve the answers to the questions you asked. Keep in mind that your child feels the same way about not getting answers to their questions from you!  

Parenting is hard! Answering tough questions can feel like the wrong move, but it is actually making you and your child stronger! You are not alone parents! Let’s keep working, learning, and growing together!