My mom picked me up from camp the other day, and I was upset about not getting to play during a softball game. When my mom asked what was wrong, I told her. I was still upset later at home, and my dad asked me what was wrong. I said, “Nothing.” Then I heard my parents whispering in the other room, and my mom told my dad why I was upset. Should I just keep everything a secret? How can I trust my mom?
Dear Secret,
Keep trusting your mom and, when possible, open up to your dad. Your mom isn’t guilty of gossipy blabbing—after all, she just told your father about something that upset you because they both love and care about you. That said, tell your mom when you want her to keep something secret. For example, if you confide in her about your period or a boy you like, explain that you’d be angry if she were to tell anyone else (even your dad). Add, “I want to be able to confide in you about things, Mom, without worrying about it getting leaked.”
BY CAROL WESTON ON 7/13/2011 8:00:00 AM
POSTED IN family, dear carol solves family probs, problems with my parents, how to talk to parents, advice from Carol Weston