There are times when we say things that we wish we could take back. Here is a list of things parents have said that they wish they could take back. Our hope is that by reading through this list you will think before saying those irretrievable words!
We suggest trying:
1.) Great game! INSTEAD OF Maybe if you played harder, you would have won!
2.) A wrap tied over that cami would make a great finishing touch. INSTEAD OF You're wearing that!?
3.) That's great! I know how hard you studied for that test. INSTEAD OF An A-? Maybe if you studied a little harder you would have gotten an A.
4.) I'm really sorry. I'm here if you want to talk about it. INSTEAD OF I'm glad you broke up, I never really liked her anyway.
5.) I would love to read it. INSTEAD OF Can't you see that I am busy? Ask your father to read it.
6.) Wow, second place is incredible, you are so talented! INSTEAD OF You should have won first place. You were much better than the girl who won.
7.) I just bought some fresh fruit, do you want some? INSTEAD OF You're getting fat. You eat too much junk food!
8.) I'd like to get to know your new boyfriend. INSTEAD OF Your new boyfriend looks scary with all of those tattoos and piercings.
9.) I'm here if you need me. INSTEAD OF I told you so!
10.) I love you. INSTEAD OF Saying nothing at all.
Can you think of anymore? Please share.
Barbara Greenberg and Jennifer Powell-Lunder are authors of the hit book, "Teenage as a Second Language: A Parent's Guide to Becoming Bilingual." They've set up an interactive website for parents and teens to listen, learn and discuss hot topics and daily dilemmas. You can find it at www.talkingteenage.com.
