When it comes to parenting, I had an idyllic vision of the values I would instill in my kids: confidence, empathy, and a passion for reading. While I’m still striving toward those goals, I’ve inadvertently taught them some unexpected lessons along the way.
Cursing
Just yesterday, as we were on our way to a family gathering, my eldest son let out a perfectly timed expletive after realizing he had forgotten his favorite toy at home. My partner and I exchanged glances, unsure whether to act sternly or feel a hint of pride.
Partner: What did you say?
Kid: What?
Partner: You heard me. What was that?
Kid: I don’t know what you’re talking about.
In our household, we don’t have a swear jar—because let’s be real, I still need to finance my trips to the grocery store and indulge in my lattes. We refer to those words as “adult words,” which, let’s face it, are among the perks of growing up—like enjoying a glass of wine or skipping bedtime. I try to keep my cursing to a minimum, but there are moments when an unfortunate bump or a rude driver can break that resolve.
I grew up in a strict household where swearing was prohibited, which led to a lot of anxiety about using those words during my teenage years. I remember my futile attempts to drop a curse word casually, only to be met with laughter from friends who thought I was just pretending. My kids, however, won’t have to endure that same awkwardness. When I overhear them, I raise my eyebrows and playfully inquire, “Where did you learn that?” To which they usually respond with a roll of their eyes.
Flatulence
When I first started dating my partner, he was taken aback by my reluctance to pass gas around him. I just knew he wasn’t quite ready for that! But once I finally let one slip, he was horrified and has been wishing I would hold it in ever since. What did he expect—flowers and sunshine?
In my family, “tooting” was reserved for the bathroom, and I quickly learned that lifestyle was not for me. I’ve embraced a more liberated approach since then. Just recently, while shopping at a discount store, I thought it would be safe to let one rip in the children’s clothing aisle, assuming it would be silent. It was not. The sound echoed through the store, and I instantly felt like disappearing among the clearance items.
To cover up my embarrassment, I leaned down to my inquisitive three-year-old and dramatically asked, “Sweetheart, do you need to use the potty?” Not my proudest moment, but hey, motherhood has its perks, right? Our family has become one where flatulence is just part of the fun—though I do wish we could keep it in check while on long car rides or during church.
Dancing
I may not have the moves of a professional dancer, but I make up for it with enthusiasm. Whenever a favorite song plays, I can’t help but groove, and my kids have inherited that same spirit. We frequently break into spontaneous dance parties in the car, at the grocery store, and even while waiting in line. It’s like our own uncoordinated flash mob!
However, my oldest son still believes wrestling is a form of dancing, so things can get chaotic when he decides to tackle his younger sibling instead. I foresee him thriving in mosh pits someday.
Apologizing
Sometimes, my reactions come before my brain has time to process, leading to a lot of apologies. I once overheard my middle children preparing for school, and it filled me with pride to hear them practicing this important skill.
Him: Oakley, get out of the way!
*Pause*
Him: Sorry, Oakley, that wasn’t nice.
Her: I forgive you.
It was a proud moment. None of us are perfect, and learning to apologize is an invaluable tool.
So yes, I’m still reading great books and fostering values like kindness and confidence, but we’re also dancing, expressing ourselves, and yes, passing gas. I adore my little family just the way we are—quirks and all.
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Summary
In the journey of parenting, I’ve inadvertently taught my kids lessons in cursing, flatulence, and the joy of dancing, all while emphasizing the importance of kindness and apologies. Our family embraces these quirks, creating a unique and loving household filled with laughter and life.