How to gracefully handle your child’s embarrassing remarks

Simon says… “I saw mommy crying last night”

If you really wanted to share your sorrow with another person, you would have told him or her. I am sure the other adult is quite aware of this. They probably feel more uncomfortable than you that you were put in this awkward situation.

There is no need to explain why you were crying if you would rather not share with that person. If they ask if everything is okay, you can cheerfully state that you are fine and were just having one of those days. Remember that when you are upset, your child is naturally going to be concerned about you. They may tell others because they feel sad that you were upset.

We cannot always control our emotions, but we shouldn’t put a young child in the position of having to worry about our well-being. If your son or daughter sees you crying, as soon as you are able, let him or her know that you’re okay, and even grownups get sad and cry sometimes. You don’t need to explain why you’re crying unless you’re certain that you don’t mind that information possibly being shared. (For instance, bursting into tears over the loss of a close relative is quite different to crying because of an argument with your partner.)