00:00:00:00 – 00:00:27:14
If your child fears your reaction, they’ll hide the truth. But if they trust your reaction, they’ll share the truth. And that difference right there, that’s the foundation of your entire relationship with your kiddo. When your child messes up, they’re not just watching what you say. They’re watching what your face does, how your voice sounds. How safe they feel in that moment.
00:00:27:16 – 00:00:57:24
If they see anger, shame, or judgment, their brain learns it’s not safe to be honest. But if they see calm and curiosity and true love, even when you’re disappointed, their brain learns. I can tell the truth and still be loved, even if it’s not what mom wants to hear. That’s how you build trust that lasts through the teenage years, when the stakes are higher and the secrets are bigger.
00:00:57:26 – 00:01:20:07
In other words, your reaction today teaches them whether honesty is safe tomorrow. So when you take that breath before responding, when you choose connection over control, you’re not going soft. You’re actually building a bridge. Your child will keep walking across long after they grow up.