A couple of examples we covered where it is easy to “fudge” were:
Saying “I don’t know” when really do know and just don’t want to say.
Saying “I can’t” when can, but aren’t going to right now.
Saying “nothing” when asked what you are eating? Or what you are doing?
Saying “oh, it’s yucky" when a child wants a sip of what you are drinking.
Saying “they aren’t going to have any fun” to a child left home when another gets to go.
Saying “we’ll be home in a few minutes” when not planning to return until children are in bed.
So what could be said instead?
Say, “I’m not going to tell you, please stop asking” Or “It is not your concern” when not wanting to fill in a child of all the details.
Say, “I’m not going to play right now, I am going to finish fixing supper” when not wanting to stop an immediate task to play with the child.
Say, “I’m eating a cracker.” And when the child asks if they can have one, you decide. “No, you have to wait until lunch” is an ok response.
Say, “No, you can’t have a sip” when not wanting to share.
Say, “Sister went with Daddy for a date. Your time will come too.” Expect joy for the sibling, not anger.
Say, “Sitter will put you to bed and we will kiss you when we get home” when going out for the night.
Honesty in these “little” matters, speak volumes to children. They know you are not telling the truth when you speak these flippant comments. It is important for mom not to “fudge” and to be honest!