Being a good role model for our children is something we all strive for, but sometimes that means putting on a facade—maybe even a little white lie here and there. Here are 13 things that mothers often keep under wraps from their little ones.
- Sweets: Whether it’s chocolate or any other tempting snack, it’s nearly impossible to enjoy a treat without the kids asking for a bite—or worse, wanting the whole thing! I’ve seen moms sneak into the kitchen during bath time, devouring a candy bar while trying not to show it. I’ve done my own version, tiptoeing past my kids’ room at night with a pint of ice cream tucked discreetly under my arm for a quiet binge in front of the TV.
- Hangovers: After a night out, the last thing I want is to let my kids see my struggle with a pounding headache. Instead, I muster up a cheerful demeanor while I search for some water and an Advil, all while trying to keep the morning’s chaos at bay.
- Frustration: Parenting can test the limits of your patience. Sometimes, I feel my temper stretching thin, but if I reacted to every little annoyance, there’d be a lot of shouting. I’d prefer my kids not to discover just how easily I can lose my cool.
- Anxieties: From worries about accidents to concerns about school safety, moms often hide their fears from their kids. We try not to let them see our apprehensions, and sometimes we even try to hide them from ourselves.
- Personal Flaws: It’s ironic how we strive to raise kind and hardworking children while grappling with our own imperfections. I often employ a “fake it till you make it” philosophy, knowing full well that I may never embody the patience and kindness I preach.
- Relationship Issues: Every couple has disagreements, and often those discussions happen behind closed doors. We keep these whispers away from the children, not wanting to burden them with adult conflicts.
- Double Standards: I can’t help but tell my kids that too much dessert isn’t healthy, even as I push aside thoughts of my own sweet indulgences.
- Smartphone Secrets: Who hasn’t snuck away to check social media while in the bathroom, quickly hiding the phone under a towel before rejoining the family?
- Intimacy: “Mommy and Daddy are just taking a nap!” is my frantic response as I hear the toddler rattling the bedroom door, hoping I remembered to lock it.
- Annoying Toys: When my kids ask about a particularly loud toy, like “Screechy Monkey,” I act innocent, even though I may have secretly disposed of it.
- Our Own Screen Time: While I monitor my kids’ screen time diligently, I can’t help but indulge in my own once they go to bed. Thank goodness they don’t catch me!
- Halloween Candy: To avoid a candy overload, I’ve hidden the stash away, moving it from high cabinets to the trash depending on the quality of the treats.
- Family Dynamics: We may have strong opinions about relatives, like Aunt Martha, who has made some rather rude comments. But for the sake of family harmony, we often keep our thoughts to ourselves, swallowing our irritation during family gatherings.
As much as we want to foster open communication with our children, we also deserve our own space and privacy. Sometimes that means bending the truth just a little. Right now, for instance, I’m hiding a bowl of caramel popcorn from my kids, claiming it was finished ages ago. And honestly, I can’t wait for Halloween to bring on more little fibs!
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Summary: Moms often keep secrets to maintain harmony and a sense of control in their lives. From hiding snacks and managing hangovers to dealing with family dynamics, these little white lies help us navigate the complexities of parenting while still trying to set a good example.