As a relatively new mom approaching the five-year mark, I’ve quickly learned that parenting comes with its own set of unwritten rules. One of the most amusing seems to be that parents often resort to fibbing. Whether it’s to protect, distract, or simply cope, these little lies are a rite of passage in parenting.
Let’s dive into some of the classic tales parents tell their children.
- We have eyes in the back of our heads.
Many parents, especially those with a rich heritage, swear they possess this extraordinary ability. Growing up, my own parents claimed they could see my mischief from every angle. It’s a comforting thought that explains how they always seemed to know when I was up to no good. - This food is too hot for you!
Kids are relentless when it comes to food. They’ll reach for anything, including your meal. So, who hasn’t claimed their dinner was too spicy or too hot for little mouths? Raises both hands in solidarity. - The Legend of Santa Claus.
Let’s be honest—Santa is probably the most widespread parenting myth ever. I never received gifts from Santa, which led me to believe he was just a nice story. But maybe my mischief with my parents was the real culprit! - If you sneeze with your eyes open, they’ll pop out!
Growing up with a jokester father, I was told tales of a professor who lost his eyes after sneezing with them wide open. While it’s probably a fabrication, it’s enough to make anyone think twice before sneezing in that manner. - Going outside with wet hair will give you a cold.
This is classic folklore passed down through generations. Though there’s no scientific evidence linking the two, the thought of being cold with wet hair is enough to keep me indoors after a shower. - Strangers are dangerous.
Parents often emphasize the dangers posed by strangers. While it’s essential to be cautious, as adults, we know that many strangers can be kind and helpful, contrary to the fear instilled in us as kids. - Turning on the light in the car at night brings bad luck.
I still feel uneasy about illuminating the car’s interior while driving at night. Perhaps this myth arose from concerns about distraction, but I’m not about to test that theory. - Too much TV will ruin your eyesight.
I grew up believing that watching television too closely could lead to blindness. Regardless of the truth, it’s a good excuse to limit screen time! - Swallowing gum takes seven years to digest.
Remember when chewing gum was a schoolyard taboo? I never swallowed it, but I was convinced my friends were in for a long digestive journey. - You can do whatever you want as an adult.
Many parents, including mine, painted adulthood as a land of freedom and fun. The reality, however, is more about responsibilities and bills than carefree living. - Rolling your eyes will make them stay that way.
As a ’90s kid, I loved rolling my eyes. An adult once warned me that I might get stuck in that position. Spoiler alert: I didn’t believe it, but I did notice it can lead to headaches! - Swimming after eating causes cramps.
Growing up, I heard countless warnings about swimming post-meal. As an adult, I learned there’s no real harm in it, but the idea of exercising right after eating still doesn’t appeal to me.
As I prepare for my parenting journey, I’m still deciding which tales to share with my children. These little fabrications often give us a break from chaos or help steer them away from potential harm. Here’s to many more years of parenting and the inevitable little lies that come with it!
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In summary, parenting is a mix of creativity and strategy, often involving a few little lies to make life smoother. Whether for safety or simply to maintain sanity, these tales are part of the parenting experience.