When the parenting road gets bumpy, do you turn to others for support? Or do you quietly hide behind a façade of smiles?

When I was growing up, I never saw my parents struggle. Even though I know they had money issues, marriage issues, all sorts of issues, they never showed it. Perhaps they thought that hiding it would help me avoid the problems they had. But in reality, it just taught me to hide behind the same mask while I tripped and stumbled over my own problems.

The lesson here is simple. Don’t be afraid to let your children know that you struggle sometimes. It’ll help them learn how to handle issues wisely, especially when they face turmoil years down the road. Trust me, they’ll be grateful for the example you set!

If you listen on a mobile phone or tablet, please download our Parenting Today’s Teens app available for Apple or Android. If you listen on a desktop or laptop computer, press the “play” button above to enjoy daily parenting advice.