How do I teach my kids about honesty when I mess up?

1w ago·1 min read

So my 8 year old caught me in a lie yesterday. I told my boss I was sick to get out of a meeting when really I just didn't want to go. My son asked me point blank if that was what Jesus would do. Man that hit hard. I apologized to him right there and told him the truth about what I did. Trying to figure out how to make this a teaching moment instead of just damage control. Anyone dealt with this before?

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Comments(5)

RRick M.Regular1w ago

Man, this is tough but I think you nailed it by owning it with your kid. My 6yo caught me speeding once and I had to explain why I was wrong. Kids respect honesty way more than perfection. The fact that you're thinking about this already puts you ahead.

EEric M.Regular1w ago

This is real parenting. My kids are older now but I remember those moments where I had to admit I wasn't perfect. It actually made them trust me more, not less. Shows them honesty matters even when it's hard.

SStevenRegular1w ago

I'm still in the early days with my 6-month-old, but I'm already thinking about stuff like this. The fact that you're asking the question tells me you care about getting it right. That matters more than being perfect.

WWyatt C.Regular1w ago

Man, this is tough but you're already ahead by recognizing it. My kids have caught me in little fibs too, and I've found just owning it with them goes a long way. Sounds like your son is watching and learning more from how you handle this than from the mistake itself.

JJayson H.New Dad1w ago

Your 8yo is actually learning the most valuable lesson right now - that adults mess up and own it. That's worth more than never making a mistake. I'd sit down and explain what you did wrong and why you're trying to do better. They'll remember that.