Everyone messes up every now and then. What’s important is that we own up to our mistakes, learn from them, and lastly, apologize for our actions. While it may not sound too wise to apologize to your kids–considering you’re the authoritative figure in their lives–you’d actually be wrong. There are a handful of reasons why parents should start apologizing to their kids.
Check out the list of reasons why parents need to start apologizing to their kids:
1. Apologizing is nurturing
Cultivating a loving, caring family takes time and effort. In order to do that, you’ll need to nurture your kids, and believe it or not, apologizing to them when you mess up can help do that. Regina Kupecky, a social worker at the Attachment and Bonding Center of Ohio has a simple formula for parents: “nurture more; control less”.
“Focus on strengthening the bond with your child vs. laying down the law, and good behavior will naturally follow,” says Kupecky. That means even when you lose your cool when you’re wearing your disciplinarian hat, it’s highly suggested that you offer a sincere apology for having lost your cool. Of course, it’s easier to never blow your lid in the first place, but no one’s perfect, and every parent gets angry from time to time. What’s important is that you apologize for your actions.
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2. Apologizing sets a good example for your kids
Not only is apologizing a good way to nurture your kids, but it’s also a good way to nurture good behaviors in your kids. Kids are generally very impressionable, so if you lead by example and show the importance of apologizing, it’s fair to say that they’ll implement the habit socially. Kids who understand that no one is perfect, and that everyone makes mistakes are more likely to learn from their mistakes. Not to mention that everyone likes to see a little humility as opposed to stubborn cockiness.
3. Apologizing doesn’t mean giving up authority
It’s a common misconception that parents who apologize to their kids come off as weak, and flexible in the eyes of their kids. Well, that’s simply not true. If your children respect you and listen to you when you speak, then apologizing to them when you’ve made a mistake, or took something too far won’t jeopardize that. If anything, it’ll only make them respect you more. If you’re laying down the law in your house effectively, a sincere apology when it’s warranted won’t compromise your role as the authoritative figure in the house.
4. Apologizing creates mutual respect
Ideally, all parents aim to raise kids who respectful and understanding. If you apologize to your kids, there’s a good chance that you’ll cultivate that respect which you long for. Kids are surprisingly forgiving and understanding, so if you offer an apology where it’s due, they’ll more than likely do the same to in the future. Remember, parents: it’s all about leading by example.
5. Apologizing is generally the right thing to do
Sometimes, you have to roll up your sleeves and do what’s right. Often, that means conceding, being the bigger person, and apologizing to someone for your misbehavior or misconduct. Why? because it’s the right thing to do. This idea extends to your kids, and sometimes it’s as simple as that. Apologizing just feels better, and it can help strengthen the bond with you and your child.
[H/T] Parenting.com
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