We all know that lying is wrong, yet as parents, we often find ourselves tangled in the web of little white lies. Childhood is filled with tales of Santa Claus, the Tooth Fairy, and the Easter Bunny—myths we uphold to preserve the magic of youth. Sure, we tell ourselves these fibs help our kids experience a joyful childhood, but let’s be honest: sometimes, we just need to get through the day. Here are the ten most common whoppers I share with my children.
- I’m almost finished. This is my go-to phrase. Whether I’m preparing dinner (which still has half an hour to go) or brushing my daughter’s curly hair (we’re going to be here for a while), I reassure them that I’m nearly done. I know you want to keep playing during your bath, but I promise I’m almost finished washing your sticky little body, even though I just started!
- Dinner is delicious! Truth be told, I overcooked the broccoli while wrestling with your shirt, and that “World’s Best Chicken” recipe? Clearly written by someone who needs a taste test themselves.
- We’ll head to the park later. Later could mean tomorrow—or even the next day. I might just be secretly hoping your dad takes you so I can enjoy a nap or binge-watch another episode of my favorite show. We’ll go to the park, I swear… when you’re five or maybe ten.
- I don’t mind sharing my food. Of course not! It’s not like I ever get a moment to myself to eat, right? I can always have my meal after you’ve left for college.
- What a fabulous drawing! Is that a stick figure and a tree, or perhaps a walrus playing basketball in outer space? You’re so creative!
- I love sharing bath time with you! There’s nothing more thrilling than getting splashed repeatedly and having bath toys squirted in my eyes. And please, continue poking my stretch marks while giggling—it’s so much fun!
- The candy is all gone. Except for those delicious Reese’s Minis I stashed away in the pantry. Those are definitely off-limits to you!
- Mommy’s going to bed, too. In reality, I’ll be up for a few more hours tackling chores, meal planning, and reminiscing about the days when I didn’t have to clean in the dark to avoid waking you.
- I have no idea where your favorite noisy toy is. It’s certainly not hidden away in the closet behind the mound of clothes you’ve outgrown, which I still haven’t donated. Nope, not at all.
- The TV went to sleep. Or maybe I just turned it off when you weren’t looking because I couldn’t handle another episode of Daniel Tiger discussing feelings.
When I finally meet St. Peter at the gates, I’m certain I’ll have a lot of explaining to do. I wonder if he enjoys Reese’s too…
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In summary, parenting often involves a mix of truth and playful fibs that help us navigate the challenges of daily life. From dinner time to bath time, these little lies allow us to maintain a sense of balance in our hectic world.