Why you should apologise to your kid and the right way to do it

It is natural for humans to make mistakes. After all, nobody is perfect, be it kids or parents. While raising kids with utmost care and discipline, parents too at times make mistakes that may hurt the kid's feelings. If you know that your action may have caused grief to your little one, what would you do?

If you ask us, we will suggest you apologise.

For any relationship to be successful, it is crucial to communicate and accept the mistake. The same goes for the father-child or mother-child relationship. Apologising to your kids won't decrease your value in their eyes or they won't stop respecting you. It will in fact strengthen your bond. Saying sorry also imparts the message that everyone needs to own up to their mistake and confront the other person. The rule is the same for all, even grown-ups.

Secondly, children observe their parents and the people around them. They evaluate their every move and then repeat the same. So, it can also be an opportunity to instil good manners in your kids. If you apologise for your error, kids will learn the same and would act the same way later. You will not have to force them or ask them to do so. It will help them develop the consciousness that accepting the mistake is necessary.

Lastly, apologising will send a message to your kid that you respect their feelings.

While every parent has their way of ratifying their mistake, some expert-approved ways have more impact on kids. Below are mentioned a few things that you must keep in mind while apologising to your little one.

There is no embarrassment to owing up to your mistake, even if it is in front of your kids. State it clearly if you were unreasonable, impatient, loud or harsh. Tell them you were not fair to them and you overreacted on the matter.

Ask your kids how they feel and acknowledge it. Even if you think that it was not a big deal, but your kid presses on the issues, just accept it. Arguing on this will strain the relationship and your kids may start to feel that you do not value their feelings.

It is a habit of many to apologise and then put the onus on the other person's actions. I yelled at you, but your actions deserved it - avoid using such sentences in the case of your child. This does not impart a good message.

Kids have no idea what you are going through or how you are handling things. If you want them to understand, give valid justification for your actions. Whether you are overworked or stressed, give them a reason.

Everyone has different ways to repent their mistake by saying the word "I am sorry" has a deep impact. You may take your kid on a drive or buy them gifts, but saying these three words is important in all cases. A sincere apology can help heal the relationship.