As a parent, I am often talking to my kids about their behavior and how to correct it. They’ve heard me say many times, “Look, this is something we don’t do,” or “Mom and I have talked to you about this,” or “God has talked about this.” But every now and then, they will fire back at me about something I have done. “Hey, Dad, you’ve talked to us about being calm and under control and you’re yelling at us.” Have you ever had your kid call you out as a parent?
Those moments are not fun, however, here is how I have to respond when they do.
Acknowledge the wrong.
It’s more powerful to show your kids how to behave than telling them.I have to say to my kids, “You know what, you’re right. If you were doing what I’m doing, I wouldn’t like it.” Let them know you see that you were wrong so they don’t see you being a hypocrite.
Do what you expect from them.
It’s important to apologize to your kids in these situations. I tell them, “I was wrong and I’ll try not to do it again. Please forgive me.” It’s a great opportunity for you to model how they should respond. It’s more powerful to show your kids how to behave than telling them.
Sound off: When your kids call you out, what do you do?
Huddle up with your kids and ask, “How many times do I have to say something before you take me seriously?”