We all make mistakes, even parents do. Sometimes, parents yell to their children and hurt them in the process of disciplining them but that should not always be the case. Parents should be an example in teaching their kids how to admit mistakes. Doing so, will benefit everyone in the long run.
On the other hand, treating a mistake as if it is something you should be ashamed of by not admitting it, may have an adverse effect to kids' behavior.
According to Washington Parent, "Kids who grow up believing that mistakes are shameful and unacceptable often become risk averse (because they can't fail if they don't try) or adept at denying or hiding their faults (tendencies they may have picked up from their parents). They also grow increasingly resentful and angry toward parents who refuse to own up to and make amends when they are in the wrong."
Here are 5 reasons why apologizing to your kids is important per Parenting.
1. It is nurturing. Parents have several things on mind, from keeping the house in order, working to pay the bills and looking after their children. When stress piled up they sometimes find themselves shouting at their child for petty things. If you see yourself in this scenario, apologize because doing so will remind your child that you still care.
2. It is setting up as an example. When children see their parents apologize, it will not be difficult for them to do the same when they do wrong because they know that saying "I'm sorry" will not make them weak. Acknowledging a mistake signals strength.
3. It surrendering authority. Apologizing doesn't have to be done in a very apologetic tone that would make your child think "see mom or dad you're wrong." You can still practice your authority by saying "I'm sorry" when it's warranted. In this way, your kids will know that you're still the boss.
4. It promotes mutual respect. Demanding for respect without giving it first could be difficult. When parents offer an apology to their children, they extend respect to their little ones that will likely be returned to them. So when their children make a mistake, these little ones will likely say "I'm sorry" too.
5. It makes you feel better. Apologizing opens the doors for reconciliation and when you and your little one reconcile and end up in hugs and kisses, you instantly feel better.
So for parents out there, do not be ashamed to apologize to your children when you need to. Apologizing signifies strength, show your little ones how you take responsibility when you do wrong and they will learn from you.
