Never Your Fault
When you’re grumpy with your kiddos, own it. Name it out loud and take responsibility for it.
This will build their self-confidence because it teaches them to trust their perception of your mood. It’ll also allow you to feel less guilty because you’re being real and honest about it - bravely freeing them from being blamed or an outlet.
It might sound something like this: “Hey, I’ve been a little grumpy lately. You were right to notice that. I want you to know it’s never your fault when I’m grumpy. I’m grumpy because I’m having a hard time; I’m going to work on being a little less grumpy in the next few days.”
When your children don’t feel so alone in noticing your grumpiness but instead know it’s real and not their fault, your connection will deepen.