Being a mom often means striving to be an exemplary role model for our children. However, this sometimes leads us to put on a façade that doesn’t fully reflect reality. Here are 13 things that many moms discreetly keep from their kids.
- Sweet Treats: Whether it’s chocolate or any other indulgence, we know that if our kids catch wind of it, they’ll want a piece—or the whole stash! I’ve seen moms sneak into the kitchen during bath time to devour a candy bar, hoping their kids won’t notice. I’ve also tiptoed past my kids’ rooms at night, ice cream pint in hand, just to enjoy a moment of peace in front of the TV.
- Hangovers: After a rare night out, we often feel guilty enough without having to explain our headaches. With a smile plastered on my face, I’ve been known to clutch the kitchen sink while searching for water and an Advil, all while pretending to be the cheerful mom ready for a day of fun.
- Frustration: Kids can push buttons we never knew we had. My patience can wear thin, and I often worry that my children might discover just how close I am to losing it.
- Fears: From car accidents to school safety, there’s a long list of worries we keep hidden—both from ourselves and from our kids.
- Personal Flaws: It’s ironic that while we aim to raise compassionate and diligent children, we sometimes struggle in those very areas ourselves. I try to “fake it till I make it,” though I know I might never truly embody the traits I wish to impart.
- Relationship Issues: Every couple has their disagreements, often whispered behind closed doors.
- Double Standards: I often caution my kids about the dangers of too much dessert while attempting to forget my own indulgences, like an apple-cider donut binge.
- Our Devices: We’ve all snuck a peek at our phones while in the bathroom, only to hastily conceal them when leaving.
- Intimacy: When the kids come knocking, we might hurriedly declare, “Mommy and Daddy are just resting!” praying the door is locked.
- Toys that Drive Us Crazy: That obnoxious toy? “Screechy Monkey? I’m not sure where that got to!” Meanwhile, I’ve secretly tossed it in the trash.
- Our Own Screen Time: It’s easy to set limits for our kids’ screen time, but when it comes to my own, let’s just say I’m grateful for early bedtimes.
- Halloween Candy Stashes: After Halloween, we’ve had to hide the candy to avoid epic sugar highs. It often ends up in high cabinets or even the trash, depending on its quality.
- Family Dynamics: While Aunt Linda may have made some not-so-great comments about our parenting or housekeeping, we bite our tongues around the kids, who adore her, and keep our true feelings to ourselves—at least until Thanksgiving dinner is over.
While we strive to be honest with our children, every mom deserves a little privacy. Sometimes, that means a white lie or two. As I write this, I’m hiding a bowl of caramel popcorn that I told my kids was all gone. And frankly, I’m eagerly awaiting Halloween—let the little fibs commence!
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In summary, motherhood comes with its share of secrets that help us navigate the complexities of raising children while maintaining a semblance of control in our own lives.