Moms Talk: Apologizing To Your Kids

Each week our Moms Council discusses a different parenting issue. Join the conversation by weighing in on a topic, or ask our panel of experts your question.

We put this week's question to our North Potomac-Darnestown Patch for their ideas and advice. The suggestions don’t end here. Add your own tips and advice in the comments section below.

This week's question comes from :

As a parent, what is your policy on saying sorry? Do you admit to your child that you made a mistake and were wrong or do you go with the, "I'm the parent I'm always right no matter what philosophy?"

: I definitely admit when I am wrong and have apologized to my kids. My husband does the same. But I don't apologize for upholding the rules or if they cry because they don't get what they want or are thinking selfishly. If I expect my kids to own up to their own mistakes and try to do better in the future, I'd feel hypocritical not doing the same.

: I always admit when I'm wrong and have made a mistake. I think it is important to model appropriate behavior for your kids. Nobody likes it when they are wrong and having to admit it is hard -- even as an adult. Hopefully my kids will learn that everyone makes mistakes and being able to "clean up" after is important.

: I absolutely say I'm sorry to my kids (5- and 8-years-old) when I am wrong. I also explain my thinking to them. I strongly believe in leading by example and modeling appropriate behavior. Showing them that everyone makes mistakes and taking responsibility for your actions is a powerful lesson.

: Mistake?!? I never make mistakes, so this is a non-issue. LOL! Seriously, we all make mistakes and I believe that it’s so good to admit to your child that you made a mistake and you are sorry. Incredible teaching moments are there. My daughter especially tends to be a bit of a perfectionist and just hates to be wrong. She finds it to be so embarrassing. I love an opportunity to let her know that I made a mistake and it’s ok to be wrong, as long as we learn from our mistakes and try to improve in the future.