As a parent, my goal is to raise kind and considerate children. I strive to instill values like holding doors for others, picking up after someone who drops something, making eye contact during conversations, and expressing gratitude. I constantly remind them to keep their dining area clean—no one wants to deal with a mess after a meal. I try to lead by example, but as they grow older and more perceptive, my little parenting secrets are harder to hide. So, am I a hypocritical parent? Absolutely. Let me share a few reasons why.
1. Cookie Dough Dilemma
I tell my kids to avoid raw cookie dough due to the risk of salmonella. The truth? I secretly want the whole bowl to myself. I need enough cookie dough to get us through the week, and I’m not ready to share that tasty goodness.
2. The Truth About Honesty
I always preach the importance of honesty. However, during doctor visits, when the pediatrician inquires about their screen time or vegetable intake, I might suggest we “keep certain details private.” It’s not really lying; it’s more about discretion.
3. Curse Words Slip
I constantly remind my kids to avoid bad language, yet I find myself swearing—especially in stressful situations. Like that time we stayed in a seedy motel during a storm and I screamed in shock at the unexpected television content. Of course, I instructed them to keep my outburst to themselves, but kids have a way of repeating things.
4. Screen Time Rules
I often lecture about limiting screen time while I turn a blind eye when they’re glued to their devices during long car rides. Sometimes, it’s just easier to let them zone out rather than deal with sibling squabbles.
5. Manners Matter—Except When They Don’t
I’m all about good manners, but then I find myself devouring chocolate cake at the kitchen sink without a second thought. I catch my kids drinking water straight from the faucet, and I cringe. It’s a constant battle to teach them etiquette while I indulge in my own bad habits.
6. Dress Code Double Standard
I insist that my kids look presentable when we go out, yet here I am in my old, sweaty workout clothes, typing this blog post. I encourage them to dress nicely for public outings, but I’m not always leading by example.
So, am I going to change my behavior to better model for my kids? Probably not. I find comfort in the saying, “Do as I say, not as I do.” It works for me, and I’ll likely keep using it.
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In summary, embracing my hypocritical nature as a mother is just part of the journey. While I strive to teach my children valuable lessons, I’m also learning to accept my imperfections along the way.
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