I just outsmarted my kids without them even realizing it! I promised them ice cream if they tidied up their rooms and the bathrooms. This tactic also comes in handy when I want them to do homework, behave while shopping at Target, or simply to have a moment of peace. A little sugar and screen time usually do the trick, but sometimes a white lie is just what I need. It seems every parent I know has found their own way to be a bit crafty, and I’m sure you have too. There’s no shame in it—we’re all just trying to survive the day without losing our minds. Before becoming a mom, I thought simply saying “no” or giving orders was enough. I quickly learned that I had to get creative.
- I claim the toy store is closed.
Let’s be real, dragging my exhausted self through that chaos is not happening. I’d rather say it’s closed until I’m ready to face it again. - I disguise their veggies.
Kids can be so picky, so blending vegetables into smoothies or their favorite pasta sauce is my secret. If they catch me, I just blame it on their imagination! - I say Santa is always watching.
This little reminder works wonders all year round—July or Christmas doesn’t matter. It’s my go-to for keeping them in line. - I make up stories about their treats disappearing.
“Nope, your chocolate stash wasn’t me; it must’ve been a sneaky mouse!” Sometimes, I just can’t resist those holiday goodies. - I use my kids as an excuse to skip social events.
“Sorry, my little ones are feeling under the weather.” The truth is, I just need a day of solitude without pants. - I tell them cookie dough is dangerous.
“No cookie dough for you, it might give you a tummy ache!” Really, it’s just my guilty pleasure I’m not willing to share. - I threaten to take away screen time, but then give in.
I often blurt it out in frustration, but let’s face it—sometimes I just can’t stick to my guns. - I feign illness to avoid hosting playdates.
When another mom calls to arrange a playdate, I suddenly find myself “feeling ill.” One extra kid can be a bit too much some days! - I exaggerate about money.
“Oh wow, prices have skyrocketed on socks!” as I hide my new boots. It’s more amusing than admitting I splurged. - I keep secrets about our special outings.
I tell my kids not to discuss our one-on-one dates. When they come home and brag, it ruins the magic of those moments. - I give misleading answers to the doctor.
If the pediatrician asks, I’ll say my kids hardly eat sugar or watch TV. I just want to avoid the awkwardness of truth at appointments.
While I know these aren’t my proudest moments, I’m not shy about sharing my parenting quirks. I also realize I’m far from alone in using a bit of manipulation to navigate this wild ride.
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Summary:
Motherhood has made me a bit more clever and crafty in various ways—from claiming toy stores are closed to disguising vegetables, to using my kids as an excuse to skip social gatherings. These little tricks help me navigate the chaos of parenting while keeping a sense of humor about it all.